Identification

The Premier Blueberry (Vaccinium ashei 'Premier') is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6ft tall and 4ft wide. It produces oval-shaped, light green leaves that turn to red, orange, and yellow in the fall. The plant blooms in the spring, producing pinkish-white, bell-shaped flowers that give way to the blueberries in the early summer.

Pollination

The Premier Blueberry requires cross-pollination to produce fruit. This means that the flowers must be pollinated with pollen from a different blueberry variety to set fruit. Honeybees, bumblebees, and other native bees are the most effective pollinators for blueberries.

To ensure good pollination, it's recommended to plant at least two different blueberry varieties within 100 feet of each other. This will increase the chances of cross-pollination between the plants. It's also important to plant early and late-blooming varieties together to extend the bloom time and increase the likelihood of successful pollination.

Care

Proper care of your blueberry bushes will also help ensure a good crop. This includes regular watering, fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer, and pruning to promote new growth. Blueberry bushes also prefer acidic soil with a pH between 4.0 and 5.0, so it's important to test your garden soil and adjust the pH if necessary. Mulching around the base of the plants can also help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Premier Blueberry (Vaccinium ashei 'Premier') - FAQ

General Information

What is Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry is a deciduous blueberry plant that produces medium-sized, sweet, and flavorful berries. It is popular among home gardeners and commercial growers because of its hardiness, disease resistance, and high yield.

What are the botanical characteristics of Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry belongs to the Vaccinium genus and is a cross between the southern highbush blueberry (Vaccinium darrowii) and the rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei). It has an upright habit, reaching a height of 6 to 8 feet and a spread of 5 to 6 feet. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, turning red in the fall. Its flowers are white or pink and appear in late spring to early summer.

Planting and Care

When is the best time to plant Premier Blueberry?

The best time to plant Premier Blueberry is in late fall to early spring, when the plant is dormant. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season begins.

What are the soil requirements for Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.0 and 5.5. The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and moist.

How much sunlight does Premier Blueberry need?

Premier Blueberry requires full sun to produce a high yield. It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer berries.

How often should I water Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water deeply and frequently, especially during hot and dry periods.

What kind of fertilizer should I use for Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry requires a balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content in the spring and early summer to promote foliage growth and a higher phosphorus and potassium content in the fall to promote berry growth. Use a fertilizer specifically designed for blueberries and follow the recommended application rates.

Harvesting and Storage

When is the best time to harvest Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry typically ripens in late May to early June in the Southeastern United States. The berries should be plump, firm, and blue to blue-violet with a white-gray bloom on the skin. They should come off the bush easily when gently tugged.

How should I store Premier Blueberry?

Premier Blueberry should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days of harvesting. It can also be frozen for later use.

Pest and Disease Management

What are the common pests and diseases of Premier Blueberry?

The common pests of Premier Blueberry include aphids, spider mites, thrips, and fruit worms. The common diseases include mummy berry, anthracnose, and powdery mildew.

How can I prevent and manage pests and diseases in Premier Blueberry?

Preventative measures such as good sanitation, proper pruning, and regular monitoring can help prevent pest and disease infestations. Organic and chemical controls are available for pest and disease management. Consult a certified arborist or horticulturist for proper treatment recommendation.

Planting & Care for Premier Blueberry (Vaccinium ashei 'Premier')

Planting

• Choose a location with full sun and well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5).
• Plant in the early spring or fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the root ball.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, gently packing it in around the roots.
• Water thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care

• Water regularly, especially during drought periods.
• Fertilize with an acidic fertilizer designed for blueberries in early spring and again in mid-summer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and to thin out the center of the plant.
• Protect from birds with netting or other barriers.
• Harvest berries when they are fully ripe and blue.