When to plant Blueberries in the UK

Plant container-grown blueberries at early October to mid-November in a large pot filled with ericaceous compost. Set the crown at the same level as the compost surface and water in thoroughly straight away.

Keep the compost evenly moist from late October through mid-July, especially in dry spells. Use rainwater if possible, because tap water can raise the compost pH over time.

Around early March to early April, top-dress with ericaceous compost or pine bark, leaving the crown clear. Apply an ericaceous feed only if growth is weak, and repeat this care each year.

Put bird netting over the plants from late July before the berries start to colour. Fix it securely, because birds will strip ripe fruit very quickly.

Pick from mid-August to late August once the berries are fully blue and come away with a light pull. Harvest over several weeks as the fruit ripens unevenly, and handle the crop gently to avoid bruising.

From early February to early March, remove weak, dead or crossing stems and shorten a few older shoots if the bush is crowded. Blueberries need only light pruning, so avoid hard cutting back.