How to Grow and Care for Buelah Blueberries

The ‘Buelah’ blueberry is a highbush cultivar (Vaccinium corymbosum) recognized for its vigorous, upright growth and late-season fruit production. Gardeners select ‘Buelah’ for its large, firm berries that possess a rich, sweet flavor with a subtle tartness. The plant also offers ornamental value, with attractive foliage that changes color in the fall.

Planting and Site Selection

‘Buelah’ requires a location that receives full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Ample sun exposure promotes better fruit development and overall plant vitality. Without sufficient light, the bush may produce fewer berries, and the quality of the fruit can be diminished.

‘Buelah’ thrives in acidic soil with a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. Before planting, it is advisable to test the soil’s pH using a widely available kit. If the native soil is too alkaline, it must be amended. Incorporating materials like sphagnum peat moss or elemental sulfur can effectively lower the soil pH to the desired range for optimal nutrient uptake.

When preparing for planting, dig a hole that is roughly twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant. Backfill the hole with a mixture of the native soil and the acidic amendments. If planting multiple ‘Buelah’ bushes for cross-pollination, ensure they are spaced about four to five feet apart. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation and room for the bushes to reach their mature size.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

The shallow root systems of blueberry plants require consistent moisture, so water regularly, especially during dry spells and when the plant is setting fruit. A drip irrigation system or soaker hose can be an effective method for delivering water directly to the soil without wetting the foliage, which can help reduce the chance of fungal diseases.

Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants, such as those used for azaleas or rhododendrons. The ideal time to apply this is in the early spring as new growth begins to emerge. Following the instructions on the fertilizer package will prevent over-application, which can harm the plant’s sensitive roots.

Pruning is best performed during the plant’s dormant season in late winter or early spring. The primary goal is to improve air circulation and light penetration by removing any dead, damaged, or weak canes. Thinning out the oldest, least productive canes will also stimulate the growth of new, more fruitful shoots.

Pollination and Harvesting

While the ‘Buelah’ blueberry is partially self-fertile, its yield and berry size can be significantly improved with cross-pollination. Planting another mid to late-season highbush blueberry variety nearby encourages bees and other pollinators to move between the plants, facilitating more effective pollination.

The berries are ready to be picked when they have achieved a uniform, deep blue color and feel firm yet have a slight give when gently squeezed. Berries on a single bush ripen over a period of several weeks, so it is necessary to harvest every few days.