As winter fades and summer approaches, blueberry lovers in New Jersey have a lot to be excited about. The weather is warming and the blueberry bushes are starting to bloom. That means fresh and delicious Jersey blueberries are in our future.
In order to get the most from your backyard harvest this year, here are some things you can do right now, in April.
Blueberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. If you have a blueberry bush, spring is the time to give it some maintenance to ensure that it produces a bountiful harvest later in the year. Here are some tips for spring blueberry bush maintenance:
Prune Your Blueberry Bush
Spring is the best time to prune your blueberry bush. Remove any dead, damaged or diseased wood, as well as any weak or crossing branches. This will improve air circulation and allow more light to reach the center of the bush, promoting healthy growth.
Fertilize Your Blueberry Bush
Blueberry bushes require a lot of nutrients to grow healthy and strong, so it’s essential to fertilize them in the spring. Use a fertilizer that’s specifically formulated for blueberries or acid-loving plants. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the roots.
Mulch Your Blueberry Bush
Mulching your blueberry bush can help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds and regulate the soil temperature. Use a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as pine needles or bark chips, around the base of the plant. Avoid using inorganic mulch, such as plastic, which can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
Water Your Blueberry Bush
Blueberry bushes require consistent moisture to produce fruit, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Avoid wetting the leaves and fruit, as this can promote disease.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Blueberry bushes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, such as mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Monitor your plants regularly and take action if you notice any signs of infestation or disease. Use organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil, to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Not interested in growing your own blueberry bush? Here are some places in New Jersey where you can pick your own fresh Jersey blueberries.
New Jersey is known for its blueberry production, and there are several pick-your-own blueberry farms in the state. Here are five places to pick your own blueberries in New Jersey:
- Emery’s Blueberry Farm, New Lisbon – Emery’s Blueberry Farm is a family-owned and operated farm that offers pick-your-own blueberries from late June to early August. They have several blueberry varieties and provide buckets for picking.
- Happy Day Farm, Manalapan – Happy Day Farm is a popular destination for pick-your-own blueberries in New Jersey. They offer several blueberry varieties and have a large selection of other fruits and vegetables as well. Their fields are open to the public from late June to early August.
- Haines Berry Farm, Pemberton – Haines Berry Farm is a family-owned farm that offers pick-your-own blueberries from late June to early August. They have several blueberry varieties and provide picking buckets.
- Terhune Orchards, Princeton – Terhune Orchards is a historic family-owned farm that offers pick-your-own blueberries, as well as other fruits and vegetables. They have several blueberry varieties and offer wagon rides to the fields during the peak of the season, which typically runs from late June to early August.
- Johnson’s Corner Farm, Medford – Johnson’s Corner Farm is another popular destination for pick-your-own blueberries in New Jersey. They have several blueberry varieties and offer a fun-filled farm experience for the whole family. Their fields are open to the public from late June to early August.
Remember to check the websites or call ahead to confirm the hours of operation, availability of blueberries, and any additional picking rules or fees. Also, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes to ensure a fun and enjoyable picking experience.