- Description
Description
Austin Blueberry Plants need water regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep an area approximately 4 feet in diameter around the bush clear of grass and weeds to minimize competition for water and nutrients. Mulch in spring and fall with approximately 4-6 inches of acid mulch (pine bark, oak leaves). Pull mulch a couple of inches away from the trunk for good air circulation. Do NOT mulch with mushroom compost. Routine pruning of blueberries is unnecessary until plants are 3 years old. During this time, remove dead, damaged or diseased limbs. Cut any leggy growth so the plant will bush up. Make all cuts flush with the limb or the next largest branch. Do not leave stubs. For established rabbiteye blueberries, approximately one quarter of the oldest canes are pruned each year to encourage cane renewal. Three to four year-old canes have maximum fruit production, declining with age. Blueberries can be lightly topped right after fruit harvest to hold down the height of the plant. All heavy thinning cuts should be made in the dormant season. Plant Quick Guide
Growing Zones:
7-9
Mature Height:
10-15 ft
Mature Width:
8-10 ft
Sunlight:
Full (6-8 hours)
Spacing:
5-6 ft for hedge; 8-10 ft individual
Chill Hours:
450-550
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Harvest Time:
Early June
Years to Bear:
2-4 years Austin Blueberries are large, easily picked rabbiteye blueberries that can be eaten fresh or used for juices, jellies, canning, or freezing. The Austin vine has an early ripening period, with the berries ready to pick in late spring or early summer. It is also a high producer so there will be plenty of berries to go around. The vine has an open habit and grows around 6-8 feet tall. Austin blueberries require 450-550 chill hours. It can be planted in full sun or partial shade.
USDA ZONES: Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
