Your questions about blueberries answered
If you’d like to try your hand at growing delicious, nutritious blueberries, here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help get you started.
How to grow blueberries
Blueberry plants thrive in acid soil with a pH value of around 5.5 or lower. If your soil isn’t suitable, it’s better to grow them in containers filled with ericaceous compost. If you do decide to grow blueberries this way, make sure you feed your plants with specialist ericaceous feed during the growing season, being careful not to overfeed. After fruiting, mulch your plants with sawdust or pine bark to help maintain the soil acidity.
Are blueberries good for you?
Blueberries are extremely nutritious, providing lots of health-boosting antioxidants including vitamin C, manganese, and vitamin K. They’re also lower in sugar than lots of other fruits.
Can dogs (and other pets) eat blueberries?
Blueberries are safe for dogs and won’t harm cats either as long as they’re served in moderation and as part of a well-balanced canine or feline diet plan.
What colour is a blueberry?
Blueberries actually have a deep purple colour that comes from a high concentration of chemicals called anthocyanins. These anthocyanins are a potent source of polyphenols – antioxidants which help to protect the body’s tissues from damage. You can also get pink varieties.
Can you freeze blueberries?
Blueberries are great for freezing and will stay fresh for 6-10 months. Like all soft fruit, previously frozen blueberries will be a little on the mushy side, but you can minimise this by defrosting them slowly in cold water.
