How To Grow Blueberries In Your Backyard For A Plentiful Bounty

Let's be honest - who wouldn't want to grow blueberries and enjoy a never-ending supply in their own backyard? Blueberries aren't just delicious. They're also packed with nutrients that give your immune system a healthy boost! In fact, 2 cups of blueberries a day give you some amazing health benefits. So enjoy them in your oatmeal, yogurt or homemade smoothies, or even just as a snack. But unfortunately, buying blueberries at the grocery store can get a bit pricey, which makes it even more beneficial to have your own fresh selection at home! If you don't have a garden, don't worry. You can grow blueberries on a patio or balcony if you live in a small space. The blueberry bush is easy to grow!

Follow these tips to grow blueberries in your own backyard:

1. Do Some Research

Before you plant your blueberry bush, take some time to do a little research. Make sure you choose a bush that will thrive in your backyard climate. Some berries grow better in humid climates, while others don't mind freezing temps. (1)

2. Choose Your Soil

When growing blueberries, acidity matters. According to The Almanac, it's best to have a soil acidity of between 4 and 5. If your soil or weather conditions won't allow your blueberries to grow in the garden, try planting them in pots instead. (2)

3. Plant Them Correctly

Along with good soil, blueberries also need plenty of sunlight. Choose a spot in your backyard that gets a lot of sunlight during the day. You should leave about five feet between each bush when planting. If you're using a pot, try and 18-inch pot and give them about 1-2 inches of water per week. (3)

4. Protect Your Blueberries

Find a way to protect your blueberries from bugs, birds and other critters. You can surround your blueberry bushes with bamboo sticks or cover them with a food-grade net to keep animals away. (4)

5. Prune Your Bushes

Did you know that blueberry bushes can produce fruit for up to 20 years? Prune your bushes every few years to ensure a blueberry harvest. Pruned bushes won't produce the year they are pruned, so keep more than one bush and alternate pruning. (5)

6. Know When To Pick Them

If you plant your blueberry bush in early spring, the berries will usually be ready to pick by July. When you see them turn blue, wait a few more days. When the berries are ripe, they'll fall off of the bush, right into your hands! (6)

Check out the video below for more information on how to grow blueberries at home!

And if you need any ideas about how to use those blueberries, check out this recipe: Vegan Blueberry Protein Shake.