Blueberry fruit tree advice needed

Loncey

I bought a blueberry fruit tree in Homebase last week and have asked a few people for advice on growing them. Some say they need acidic soil and others say they can be planted straight into the garden soil which to be honest is not very fertile. Also do I need a friend for it,are they like apple trees and need two? Please give me any helpful tips you have as this is my first time growing them and people have their names down already.... Thanks

Sive · Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2011 4:44 pm Post subject:

As far as I know, blueberries need acid soil, which I presume you have in Achill ? Would I be right ?

tippben · Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2011 12:49 am Post subject:

Yep, they need acid soil, lots of water, and minimal pruning. Add and mulch with lots of ericaceous compost.

sirpsycho · Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2011 9:28 am Post subject:

http://www.gardenplansireland.com/forum/about1688.html

Gardening Daddy · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 16 Nov 2009 Posts: 19

Yes a second plant is preferable and will increase the yield of both plants.

michael brenock · Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2011 10:27 am Post subject:

blueberries do not need another bush for pollination as they are self fertile but need insects to do the pollination, however a second bush planted nearby encourages more insects and so increases pollination activity.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

Loncey · Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2011 4:14 pm Post subject:

Thanks very much for all your answers and links. I shall find it a new home with its friend(if there are any left tomorrow) on Saturday. Once again Thanks

scotty · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 12 Feb 2008 Posts: 33

I stick chicken manure around my blueberry bushes which I believe is quite acidic and they do very well.

Flangstarr

michael brenock · Posted: Sun Apr 03, 2011 11:07 pm Post subject:

while poultry manure may be acidid it is very high in Nitrogen and needs to be balanced up with Potassium (Potash)
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)