Eaten fresh, preserved, or incorporated into desserts, these dark indigo berries cause us to wonder: how big do blueberry bushes get?
A blueberry bush can grow as big as 1 to 12 feet tall and wide. They grow slowly, with some taking 8 to 10 years to reach their full size.
If you want to get the specifics, don’t worry. We’re here to explore that too, so let’s get right into it!
How fast do blueberry bushes grow?
Blueberry bushes are moderate to slow growers, achieving 6 to 12 inches per year in ideal conditions. Early years may be slower in growth as the roots establish themselves.
Blueberry bush growth varies based on factors like variety, environment, and care, while sunlight, acidic soil, moisture, and pruning strongly influence their growth. In general, wild blueberries grow slower than cultivated highbush types.
Should I prune my blueberry bush?
You should prune your blueberry bush to promote and enhance its health, productivity, and shape. Regular pruning maintains an open structure for sunlight and air circulation, aiding fruit development and disease prevention.
It’s best to remove dead or damaged branches to stimulate new growth and deter pests. Prune during the dormant season, minimizing stress.
Remember to avoid excessive pruning to prevent reduced yields. A well-timed and thoughtful pruning is sure to enhance overall vitality and productivity.
How much fruit does a blueberry bush produce?
On average, well-tended mature bushes that are 3 to 6 years old usually produce 5 to 10 pounds of fruit. Weather, like frost during flowering, can impact production.
A blueberry bush’s fruit yield mostly depends on the age, the variety, and the overall plant care. Just bear in mind that different varieties have varying productivity.
Blueberry Bush Varieties
Blueberry bushes aren’t one-size-fits-all. They vary in shape, size, and flavor to suit different gardening preferences and regional conditions. There are 5 general types, which are found below.
- Northern Highbush Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum)
- Southern Highbush Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum hybrids)
- Lowbush Blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium)
- Rabbiteye Blueberries (Vaccinium virgatum or Vaccinium ashei)
- Half-High Blueberries (Hybrids between Northern Highbush and Lowbush blueberries)
Northern Highbush Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum)
Northern Highbush Blueberries are ideal for colder regions. They typically reach heights and widths of 4 to 7 feet, making them great for spacious gardens.
Southern Highbush Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum hybrids)
Southern Highbush Blueberries are a mix of Northern Highbush and native species, ideal for warmer southern areas. They typically grow 3 to 6 feet tall, better for smaller gardens.
Lowbush Blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium)
Lowbush Blueberries are native to the eastern part of North America. They grow well in acidic, well-drained soils and are generally short, ranging from 6 inches to 2 feet in height, with a spreading growth pattern.
These blueberries are cold-resistant and can be found in the wild. Some varieties are suitable for small gardens and containers.
H3: Rabbiteye Blueberries (Vaccinium virgatum or Vaccinium ashei)
The Rabbiteye Blueberries are ideal for warmer climates, like the southeastern United States. These can become large shrubs, reaching 6 to 10 feet in height.
Half-High Blueberries (hybrids between Northern Highbush and Lowbush blueberries)
Half-High Blueberries typically grow 3 to 4 feet tall, striking the right size balance between bushy but not too compact.
3 Popular Northern Highbush Blueberry Varieties
Northern Highbush Blueberries are known for their tasty, plump berries and ability to grow in different climates. These blueberries come in various flavors, sizes, and harvest times.
Bluecrop (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Bluecrop’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 4 to 7 |
| Climate | Temperate |
| Average Size | 4 to 6 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Late Spring to Early Summer |
| Fruit Size | Large |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Flavorful |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Highbush Cranberry |
Bluecrop blueberries thrive in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, so water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
Full sun is best, giving them at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. In spring, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants.
Trim the bushes each year to remove dead or overcrowded branches, which encourages better air circulation and fruit growth. During the fruiting season, use netting to protect the bushes from birds.
Mature Bluecrop blueberry bushes can produce around 5 to 10 pounds of berries per season. Bluecrop blueberries are a tasty addition to pies, muffins, and pancakes.
Jersey (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Jersey’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 4 to 7 |
| Climate | Temperate |
| Average Size | 4 to 6 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Mid to Late Summer |
| Fruit Size | Medium |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Tart |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Highbush Cranberry, Lingonberry, Rhododendrons |
Jersey blueberries grow best in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. We recommend keeping the soil moist, especially during the growing season as deep watering is best for established bushes.
Provide at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants in early spring.
Mature Jersey blueberry bushes can produce around 10 to 20 pounds of berries per season, making them great for home gardeners. Pruning in late winter or early spring helps maintain the shape and productivity of these bushes.
These berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Jersey blueberries have a sweet-tart flavor, perfect for fresh eating, baking, and jams.
Patriot (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Patriot’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Cold-Hardy, Adaptable |
| Average Size | 4 to 6 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Mid-Spring to Early Summer |
| Fruit Size | Medium |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Mild |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Lowbush Blueberries, Lingonberries |
Patriot blueberries flourish in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
Try to keep the soil moist all throughout the growing season, and make sure that there’s enough watering.
These blueberries are very cold-hardy, which is a big plus if you live in colder regions. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Apply a balanced, acid-specific fertilizer in early spring before new growth starts. You can expect mature Patriot blueberry bushes to produce around 3 to 7 pounds of berries per season.
Pruning in late winter or early spring helps maintain bush health and fruit production. Patriot blueberries are great for eating fresh, baking, and making jams and preserves.
3 Popular Southern Highbush Blueberry Varieties
Southern Highbush Blueberries grow well in sunnier climates, bringing delicious berries to milder regions. From early bloomers to heat-tolerant options, these varieties offer plenty of choices for berry lovers in temperate areas.
Sunshine Blue (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Sunshine Blue’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 5 to 10 |
| Climate | Well-suited for Southern climates, heat-tolerant |
| Average Size | 3 to 4 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Medium-sized |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet with a hint of tanginess |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Azaleas, rhododendrons, or other acid-loving plants |
Sunshine Blue blueberries thrive in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Amend the soil with organic matter like peat moss or compost to improve soil texture and acidity.
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. A 2-inch layer of mulch helps keep moisture and prevents weed growth.
This variety is known for its exceptional heat tolerance and can withstand temperatures up to 100 F. Full sun is ideal, but they can tolerate partial shade.
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring. Sunshine Blue blueberries typically produce about 5 to 10 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season.
Misty (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Misty’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 5 to 10 |
| Climate | Adaptable to both warm and cooler climates |
| Average Size | 4 to 6 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Large |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet with a delightful flavor profile |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other blueberry varieties, strawberries, or raspberries |
Grow Misty blueberries thrive in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Add in organic matter like peat moss or compost to improve soil texture and pH level.
Make sure that the soil is kept moist during the growing season. A layer of mulch, about 2 inches thick, will help keep in the water and prevent weeds from competing with the bush.
Misty blueberries can withstand temperatures as low as 0 F in winter. Give them full sun as it’s the most ideal sun exposure even though they can tolerate partial shade.
During early spring, feed them with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants. On average, a mature bush can produce 10 to 15 pounds of fruit per season.
O’Neal (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘O’Neal’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 5 to 9 |
| Climate | Well-suited for Southern gardens, early ripening |
| Average Size | 3 to 6 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Early in the season, often the first harvest |
| Fruit Size | Medium to Large |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Mild |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other blueberry varieties for cross-pollination |
Plant O’Neal blueberries in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. To improve soil texture and acidity level, add in some organic matter such as compost.
Make sure that the soil is kept regularly moist during dry spells or fruit development. To retain moisture, layer about 2 inches of mulch.
These blueberries are well-suited for Southern climates and tolerate heat well. Just make sure to provide full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and fruit production.
O’Neal blueberries typically yield about 5 to 10 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season, although this can vary depending on local conditions and care. Prune during the dormant season to remove dead or weak branches and shape the bush.
3 Popular Lowbush Blueberry Varieties
Lowbush blueberries are compact and cold-hardy blueberry bushes that flourish in harsh climates and deliver a burst of sweet-tart goodness. Let’s dive into the world of Lowbush Blueberry varieties!
Top Hat (Vaccinium angustifolium ‘Top Hat’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Suitable for various climates, including colder regions |
| Average Size | 1 to 2 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Small |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other lowbush blueberry varieties, dwarf fruit trees |
Grow Top Hat blueberries in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.0 and 5.0. Peat moss or pine bark can help maintain the soil acidity, so mix them in.
We want to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged and mulching can help retain soil moisture. This compact variety is well-suited for colder climates and can withstand winter temperatures down to -30 F.
Full sun to partial shade is ideal. In colder regions, the more sun it receives, the better.
Top Hat blueberries typically produce around 3 to 5 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season, just keep in mind that container-grown plants may yield slightly less. Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak growth and shape the plant.
Northland (Vaccinium angustifolium ‘Northland’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Cold-tolerant, adaptable to various soil conditions |
| Average Size | 1 to 2 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Small to medium-sized |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet with a slightly tangy flavor |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Lingonberries, lowbush cranberries, or other cold-hardy plants |
Northland blueberries are highly adaptable to various soil conditions but thrive in well-drained, acidic soil. They can tolerate poor, sandy soils better than other blueberry varieties.
Just make sure to keep the soil moist all throughout the growing season to encourage fruit development. Northland is known for its cold tolerance and can withstand winter temperatures as low as -35 F.
Full sun is ideal, but they can tolerate partial shade. Northland Lowbush Blueberries typically produce about 1 to 2 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season but may vary depending on local conditions and care.
Prune during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased wood and encourage new growth. Watch for common blueberry pests like birds, aphids, and mites even though they are less susceptible to some pests compared to highbush varieties.
Burgundy (Vaccinium angustifolium ‘Burgundy’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Suitable for a range of climates, cold-hardy |
| Average Size | 1 to 2 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Small to medium-sized |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Ornamental landscape plants, such as perennials |
Burgundy Lowbush Blueberries prefer well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.0 and 5.0. They are well-suited for rocky or sandy soils commonly found in their native habitats.
You should maintain consistent moisture while applying a layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. This variety is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -25 F, making it suitable for northern regions.
Full sun to partial shade is suitable, but they tend to produce more berries with ample sunlight. Minimal fertilizer is required, but an acid-loving plant fertilizer can be applied in early spring.
Burgundy Lowbush Blueberries typically yield 1 to 2 pounds of berries per mature plant, depending on growing conditions and care. With a compact growth habit and heights of 1 to 2 feet, Burgundy blueberries are well-suited for ground cover, borders, or edging.
3 Popular Rabbiteye Blueberry Varieties
Rabbiteye Blueberries are cherished for their adaptability to warm climates. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a newcomer to the world of berries, Rabbiteye blueberries have an offer that just might tempt you to grow it in your garden.
Climax (Vaccinium virgatum ‘Climax’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 7 to 9 |
| Climate | Suitable for a range of climates, but best in milder regions |
| Average Size | 6 to 10 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Early summer |
| Fruit Size | Medium to Large |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Tangy |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other Rabbiteye blueberry varieties |
Just like most blueberries, Climax blueberries love well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Add peat moss or compost to improve soil acidity and drainage.
Make sure to keep the soil consistently damp during the growing and fruiting season. Climax blueberries are well-suited for milder climates but can tolerate some colder temperatures.
Full sun is ideal for maximum fruit production, but they can tolerate partial shade. Climax blueberries typically produce about 5 to 10 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season.
Tifblue (Vaccinium virgatum ‘Tifblue’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 7 to 9 |
| Climate | Adaptable to various climates, but thrives in Southern regions |
| Average Size | 6 to 10 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Late Spring to Early Summer |
| Fruit Size | Medium-sized |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Mild |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other Rabbiteye blueberry varieties, Southern highbush blueberries |
Keep the Tifblue blueberries in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. This variety is well-suited for Southern climates and can tolerate heat well and full sun is ideal for optimal fruit production.
Tifblue blueberry bushes are known for their heavy fruit production and can yield approximately 10 to 15 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season. Prune during the dormant season to remove dead or crowded branches and maintain an open canopy.
Powderblue (Vaccinium virgatum ‘Powderblue’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low to Moderate ●●○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 6 to 10 |
| Climate | Well-suited for a range of climates |
| Average Size | 6 to 10 feet |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Large |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet with a slightly tart taste |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other blueberry varieties, azaleas, or rhododendrons |
Plant the Powderblue blueberries in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. These blueberries can tolerate a range of climates but prefer areas with cold winters to fulfill their chilling requirement, withstanding temperatures -10°F (-12°C).
Full sun is ideal for optimal fruit production, but they can tolerate partial shade. Powderblue blueberry bushes typically produce a substantial yield, averaging around 10 to 15 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season.
3 Popular Half-High Blueberry Varieties
Half-High Blueberry varieties offer a balance between size and harvest. These bushes are resilient and cold-hardy, producing sweet berries that carry the best of Northern Highbush and Lowbush blueberry characteristics.
Northblue (Vaccinium ‘Northblue’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low ●○○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Cold-hardy, suitable for Northern climates |
| Average Size | 18 to 24 inches |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Small to medium-sized |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and tangy |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other blueberry varieties, strawberries |
Northblue Blueberries love to grow well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.0 and 5.5. Northblue is known for its cold hardiness and can tolerate winter temperatures as low as -35°F (-37°C).
Northblue blueberry bushes can produce approximately 3 to 5 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season. Prune during the dormant season to remove dead or weak branches, improving air circulation and fruit production.
Northcountry (Vaccinium ‘Northcountry’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low ●○○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Thrives in colder climates, cold-hardy |
| Average Size | 18 to 24 inches |
| Fruiting Season | Summer |
| Fruit Size | Small and sweet |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Other low-growing shrubs or ground covers |
Plant Northcountry blueberries in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. This variety is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -35°F (-37°C) during winter.
Northcountry blueberry bushes typically yield around 2 to 4 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season. While they are partially self-pollinating, planting multiple blueberry varieties can increase fruit production.
Polaris (Vaccinium ‘Polaris’)
| Factor | Information/Description |
| Ease of Growth | Low ●○○○○ |
| USDA Zones | 3 to 7 |
| Climate | Suitable for colder climates, early ripening |
| Average Size | 18 to 24 inches |
| Fruiting Season | Early summer, often the first blueberry harvest of the season |
| Fruit Size | Medium-sized |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet with a hint of tartness |
| Suggested Companion Plants | Rhododendrons, azaleas, or other acid-loving plants |
Polaris Blueberries grow best in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
These blueberries are celebrated for their cold hardiness and can withstand winter temperatures as low as -25°F (-31°C).
Polaris blueberries typically produce 5 to 7 pounds of fruit per mature bush per season.
While Polaris is partially self-pollinating, having other blueberry varieties nearby can enhance pollination and increase fruit set.
Maintenance and Care
Taking care of your blueberry bushes will help them become healthier and provide you with a good harvest. We’ve listed the basic factors in caring for these bushes.
Watering
Keep your blueberry bushes consistently moist, especially during dry periods and when they’re producing fruit. Go for 1 to 2 inches of water per week through rain or irrigation.
Water directly at the roots using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to avoid fungal issues.
Mulching
Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch, like pine straw or wood chips, around the base of your bushes. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, keeps weeds in check, and maintains a stable soil temperature.
Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants, follow the recommended dosage on the package, and apply the fertilizer in early spring before new growth and again in late spring.
Pruning
Prune your blueberry bushes regularly to maintain their shape, size, and overall health. Remove dead or diseased branches and any low growth touching the ground.
Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure. Major pruning should be done during the dormant winter months.
Pest and Disease Management
Watch out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and fruitworms. Use organic pest control methods when necessary, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Keep the area around your bushes clean to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. If diseases like powdery mildew or fruit rot appear, promptly treat them with appropriate fungicides.
Netting and Bird Protection
Prevent birds from feasting on your ripening berries by covering your bushes with bird netting. Install the netting just before the berries ripen to deter birds.
Winter Protection
In regions with harsh winters, protect your blueberry bushes from extreme cold and windburn by covering them with burlap or frost blankets.
Soil pH Monitoring
Regularly test the soil pH around your blueberry bushes to ensure it stays acidic, around pH 4.5 to 5.5. If the pH rises above the ideal range, adjust it by adding soil amendments like sulfur.
Factors Influencing Blueberry Bush Size
The size of your blueberry bushes doesn’t depend only on their type. Many factors influence their size, so let’s take a look at what affects your blueberry bushes’ dimensions.
Soil Quality and pH Levels
Blueberries like acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5, so poor soil can limit their growth.
Add organic matter like peat moss or pine needles to adjust the pH level and texture.
Sunlight and Temperature
Blueberries need plenty of sun, about 6 to 8 hours daily, for healthier growth. Too little sun means smaller bushes and less fruit, so pick a sunny spot for maximum size and yield.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning keeps them healthy plus it helps them keep their shape. Incorrect pruning leads to crowded bushes and smaller fruit, so learn when and how to prune your specific variety.
Watering and Irrigation
Consistent watering is a must as inconsistent watering stunts their growth. To make things easier, use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization and Nutrients
Blueberries need specific nutrients, so apply balanced, blueberry-friendly fertilizer as recommended. Just be careful though as too much fertilizer can harm growth.
Variety Choice
Different blueberry varieties grow differently, so choose one that suits your garden size and goals.
Age and Maturity
Young blueberry bushes will naturally be smaller than mature, established ones. You can expect bushes to increase in size as they age, so consider this when planning your garden.
Common Blueberry Issues and Troubleshooting
Blueberry bushes are tough but can have problems. To keep them healthy and productive, you need to spot and fix common issues.
Poor Berry Production
This is the result of not enough pollination, lack of nutrients, bad pruning, or old age. You can resolve this by planting different blueberry types for better pollination.
Also, try to fertilize well and prune properly. Some old bushes can be revived and rejuvenated with some tender loving care.
Small or Deformed Berries
Small or deformed blueberries are often caused by poor pollination, water issues, nutrient problems, or pests. You can fix this by making sure bees come to visit and pollinate.
Keeping the soil moist all throughout the season helps, along with soil amendments. If there are any pests, deal with them immediately.
Yellowing Leaves (Chlorosis)
Yellowing leaves are caused by the soil pH being too high, not having enough iron, or bad drainage. You can verify this by testing and adjusting the soil pH to make sure it’s between 4.5 to 5.5.
On top of that, use iron chelate or sulfate for chlorosis. Finally, improve drainage if the soil’s too wet.
Pest Infestations
Common blueberry pests include aphids, spider mites, fruitworms, and birds. Use soap or neem oil for aphids and mites, remove fruitworms by hand, and protect berries from birds with netting.
Diseases
Common diseases include powdery mildew, fruit rot, and leaf spot. You can trim infected branches for better air, use fungicides for diseases, and clean up fallen leaves and debris.
