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Potted blueberry plant in winter #873874

Asked June 20, 2024, 1:07 AM EDT

I have ordered a blueberry plant which they will ship in the Fall (September). What will I have to do to prepare it for winter? Is it a good idea to plant it in the Fall so I get a head start or I should cancel the order and order it for next Spring? What do I have to do for a potted blueberry plant over the winter? Do I have to bring the potted blueberry plant inside? Do I mulch it with straw? It would still freeze in the pot in an unheated garage. Do I have to water it still?

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

You can plant the blueberry bush in the fall when you receive it.  It's best to plant two varieties to allow for pollination.  The U of Mn has prepared an excellent article on growing blueberries - it answers pretty much all of your questions.   Here it is:  https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-blueberries-home-garden
Diane M Replied June 21, 2024, 12:28 PM EDT
Thanks for your reply and sending me the link. The article does not talk much about blueberry plants in a container.

1. Can I leave the potted plant out there in the yard? It would be in an oak half barrel on top of some river rocks. How thick a layer of leaves or straw should I mulch it in the container?
2. Should I bring it into an unheated garage? If so, do I still mulch it with leaves or straw? Do I need to water it in the garage?

Thank you.

Anna Awasu



On Fri, Jun 21, 2024 at 11:28 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 24, 2024, 8:31 PM EDT
You can leave it outdoors in a container, but you need to be cautious when doing this.  First choose a cold-hardy variety, such as those developed by the U of Mn.  Your container should be large enough, but do protect the roots by placing yourit against the house foundation.  Then place mulch heavily around the plant with 12 inches of loose straw or pine needles.  Also think about burying the pot in the ground for the winter if possible, as this provides the best protection.  

You can also place your container in your unheated garage.  If you do that, do mulch it and water sparingly.  Container-grown blueberries are more vulnerable to winter damage than those planted in the ground, so if possible plant it in the ground.
Diane M Replied June 25, 2024, 4:47 PM EDT

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