How And When To Fertilize Blueberry Bushes | Gardener's Path

Here is a helpful chart, provided by the University of Georgia, for liquid fertilization rates.

Granular

Granular fertilizers are my personal favorite way to feed my plants, as they slowly release nutrients over time and are super easy to apply. They also have a less powerful scent than organic mixes, which is something you may prefer.

A granular fertilizer, such as Fertilome 9-15-13 NPK azalea and camellia mix available from Nature Hills Nursery, can be applied using a quarter-cup for each foot of height.

Fertilome Azalea, Camellia, and Rhododendron Food

Loosen the soil directly around the bush with a garden rake. Be gentle, as the roots are shallow and can be damaged if you rake too aggressively.

Sprinkle your granules of choice uniformly around your plant, up to 12 inches outward from the base. Follow the instructions on the product label for the amount of fertilizer you need.

Never apply directly at the base of the plant, as this will discourage the development of a healthy root system.

Gently work the granules into the soil with your garden rake, then water deeply to make the nutrients available to your plant.

Natural

If using natural nutrients is more your style, there are a few different options available.

You can find natural nutrient mixes that will work for your blueberry bushes, and I recommend this Down to Earth Acid Mix 4-3-6 (NPK) from Arbico Organics.

Down to Earth Acid Mix

This mix can be used for all acid-loving plants, like azaleas, hydrangeas, raspberries, and camellias. Check the product packaging for specific application rates.

To provide acidity, some gardeners recommend using spent coffee grounds or sphagnum peat moss to decrease the pH of the soil.

For nitrogen, well-rotted animal manure, blood meal, or worm castings can be used to encourage plant growth.

Blood meal and animal manure have such high nitrogen levels that you’ll need to mix them with compost first in order to avoid burning the shallow roots of your plants.

Phosphorus and potassium encourage blooming, fruiting, and disease resistance. These nutrients occur naturally in bone meal and powdered or liquid seaweed.

Soil Amendments

Soil is the foundation for healthy root growth, and therefore plant health. Here are some recommended amendments you might want to try to improve your harvest.

Mycorrhizal Fungi