How to grow blueberries in pots or containers

Blueberries are easy to grow in the UK by following a few simple gardening tips to create the ideal conditions they need to produce berries

To grow blueberries in pots or in the open ground you need to create some very specific conditions which include the following 

• Acidic soil or compost using John Innes ericaceous compost for growing blueberries in pots. Gor growing blueberries in the open ground that’s not acidic you can add Sulphur powder and or add well-rotted manure which is acidic.
• High levels of potash feed such as liquid tomato to encourage and maintain flowering and fruiting 
• A damp soil or compost is helpful and achieved by regular watering Blueberries naturally grow in bogs.

To Grow blueberries in containers or pots you will need:

1. Blueberry plants: Choose varieties that are bred to grow in containers, such as “Top Hat,” “Northsky,” or “Patriot.”
2. Pot: A large container with good drainage. A minimum size of 5 gallons is recommended.
3. Potting mix: Use a mix specially formulated for blueberries or a mix of peat moss, perlite, and bark chips.
4. Fertilizer: Blueberries require acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. Use an acid-forming fertilizer specifically for blueberries.
5. Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Consider using a soaker hose to keep the roots hydrated.
6. Sunlight: Blueberries need full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of direct sun per day.
7. Pruning: Regular pruning will keep the plant healthy and encourage berry production. Prune in late winter or early spring.

Blueberries require a low acid soil pH 

Blueberries require acidic soil with a pH between 4.0 to 5.5. They do not tolerate alkaline soils. If the soil in the pot is not sufficiently acidic, you can add sulfur or an acid-forming fertilizer specifically for blueberries to lower the pH.

Additionally, blueberries also benefit from an acidic compost. You can add peat moss, pine needles, or other acidic organic matter to the potting mix to help maintain a low pH. It’s important to regularly test the soil pH to make sure it stays in the correct range for blueberries to thrive.

With proper care, blueberries grown in pots can be productive for several years.

Blueberries need high levels of potash 

Blueberries require specific nutrients to grow and produce fruit, including adequate levels of potash (potassium) among other elements. A high potash feed can be beneficial for blueberries to improve their overall health and increase fruit production.

In general, blueberries benefit from a balanced fertilizer that is formulated for acid-loving plants. A fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and low in phosphorous is also recommended, as blueberries are sensitive to high phosphorous levels. It’s best to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn the roots and damage the plant.

It’s also important to note that blueberries have a shallow root system and need consistent moisture, so be careful not to over-water, which can cause root rot. Additionally, be sure to regularly check the soil pH and adjust it as needed to maintain an acidic environment for the blueberries to thrive.