#Fruit_Gardening : Tips For Growing Blueberries

Here are a few tips that will help you have a “berry good time” in no time.

• Berries are insect pollinated so attracting many different kinds of bees and other pollinators is important. Berry flowers vary in size and shape, so different species of pollinators are better at pollinating the various flowers.

• Cross-pollination is required for some blueberry varieties, and it is recommended for all varieties. To ensure good pollination, plant at least two different varieties that bloom at the same time.

• Many people don’t realize this, but a huge plus about blueberry plants is that they make excellent hedges. In order to form a solid hedge or screen, you should plant them with only 2½ to 3 inches apart from the next plant.

• Store berries short term - in the refrigerator. To freeze, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the freezer for about an hour then pack into plastic freezer containers.

• In areas that experience cold winters, simply place the canes on the ground and cover with a heavy layer of mulch. This will be sufficient cold-weather protection. In the early spring, before new growth emerges, lift the canes and reattach them to your support.