Vaccinium aka Blueberries

Taxonomy

Vaccinium is a diverse genus of shrubs or dwarf shrubs in the heath family, known for their common and widespread presence. These plants thrive in acidic soils and have fruits that are not only enjoyed by humans but also hold commercial significance. Some of the well-known species include the cranberry, blueberry, bilberry (whortleberry), lingonberry (cowberry), and huckleberry. One such variety is the bushy and upright Vaccinium shrub, which boasts mid-green foliage that transforms into a vibrant orange-gold color during autumn. In late spring, clusters of white flowers adorn the shrub, giving way to sweet and edible dark blue fruits that ripen in August. Another notable Vaccinium variant is the Brightwell, a vigorous deciduous shrub with oval, leathery blue-green leaves. As autumn arrives, these leaves transition into a striking yellow to orange hue. In spring, the Brightwell shrub showcases white, urn-shaped flowers, followed by delicious blue fruits that are ready for harvesting in early summer.

Common names

Blueberries, Midnight Cascade Blueberry, Pink Lemonade Blueberry

How to care for Blueberries

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Blueberries, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Blueberries should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Blueberries loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Blueberries prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Blueberries plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Blueberries is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Blueberries’s native range is South-eastern N. America.


More info:
Wikipedia