Collection: Our Blueberry Bushes - Our Blueberry Plants

Professional market gardeners now have access to a wide range of high-quality blueberry plants, adapted to various production needs and objectives. Available in several types (pots, pots, bare roots, etc.) and varieties (early, late, everbearing), these plants guarantee robustness, productivity, and profitability, while benefiting from expert technical support to optimize their cultivation.

How to choose the right blueberry plants for a profitable market garden

To successfully purchase professional blueberry plants , there are several essential criteria to consider. First, it's crucial to choose varieties that are suited to your region and production goals. Dwarf blueberries are suitable for smaller spaces, while vigorous-growing varieties are ideal for larger operations.

The health of your plants is paramount. Choose robust specimens with glossy foliage and well-formed buds . Plants from professional nurseries are generally more resistant to disease and pests, thanks to the meticulous care they take during cultivation .

Purchasing from specialist nurseries offers many advantages. You'll benefit from the expertise of nurserymen , who can advise you on the varieties best suited to your terroir and specific needs. In addition, these professionals often offer a diverse range , including rare or particularly productive varieties.

Professional plants generally guarantee a better yield . For example, the Elisabeth variety, highly appreciated by professionals, produces good-sized, firm and very aromatic fruits , with an extended harvest period from mid-July to early September . This long production period allows sales to be spread out and profits to be maximized .

Finally, purchasing professional plants often comes with technical support . Nurserymen can provide you with valuable advice on the maintenance, fertilization, and protection of your blueberry bushes, ensuring the longevity of your investment . This support is particularly valuable for optimizing the growth and productivity of your plants over the long term.

By choosing professional-quality plants , you are investing in the success of your operation . These plants, although potentially more expensive to purchase, offer better value for money in the long term, thanks to their robustness, productivity and longevity .

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What type of blueberry plant should you choose for a successful market garden?

To choose the type of blueberry plant best suited to your farm , it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option:

Plants in alveoli :

• Good value for money and easy to handle .
• Reduced soil consumption thanks to the small size of the cells.
• Depth favorable to the rooting of seedlings.
• Require careful care and rapid transplanting .

Mini-ball plants:

• More substrate than plants in cells.
• Good compromise between ease of handling and root development.
• Suitable for mechanized planting .

Bare-root plants:

• Economical and easy to transport .
• Available for hardy varieties .
• Requires prompt planting after receipt.
• Sensitive to water stress during recovery.

Plants in pots :

• More developed root system , promoting better recovery.
• Suitable for staggered plantings .
• Require more potting soil and are more expensive to produce .

Potted plants:

• Ideal for blueberry bushes , generally 2 years old.
• Allows for faster fruiting .
• Recommended: plants at least 30 cm high with at least 3 branches .
• More expensive , but ensure better recovery and early production .

For a professional blueberry operation , professional-quality potted plants are often preferred. They ensure better recovery and faster production , thus justifying the higher initial investment . However, the final choice will depend on your specific constraints , particularly in terms of budget , storage space and planting method .

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Which blueberry varieties should you choose for diversified and profitable market gardening?

Blueberry bushes offer a wide variety of varieties adapted to the different climates and needs of French producers . Here is an overview of the most common varieties and their specific characteristics :

Traditional varieties:

• Bluecrop : This very popular variety produces large, dark blue, juicy, and sweet fruits . It is valued for its cold resistance and adaptability to different soil types . Bluecrop is a safe choice for growers looking for a reliable and productive variety.
• Jersey : Known for its large, sweet-tasting blue fruits , Jersey is a very productive variety that requires cross-pollination for a bountiful harvest. It is particularly suitable for growers targeting the fresh fruit market .
• Duke : This variety produces medium to large fruit , with a balance of sweetness and acidity . Duke is disease resistant and adapts well to different soil types , making it a versatile choice for growers.

Specific varieties:

Early:

• Patriot : This dwarf variety produces large, sweet-tasting berries as early as mid-June. Disease resistant and suited to diverse climates , Patriot is ideal for growers wanting an early harvest .
• Reka : A very productive early variety, Reka produces good-sized fruits with a natural wild blueberry flavor . Its harvest extends from mid-June to early July, and it adapts well to unfavorable soil conditions .

Late:

• Liberty : This late variety produces very good-sized and tasty fruit . Its grouped maturity is suitable for all outlets, which makes it an interesting choice for a late-season harvest .
• Aurora : A very late variety, Aurora extends the harvest season until September . It produces firm, good quality fruit , ideal for the fresh market or processing .

Remontantes:

Although everbearing blueberries are less common, some varieties such as 'Perpetua' or 'Peach Sorbet' offer production spread throughout the season . These varieties are particularly attractive to growers looking to extend their harvest period .

Special varieties:

• Pink Lemonade : This unique variety produces pink blueberries with a sweet and tangy flavor . It is particularly prized for its unusual color and its use in desserts and jams .

The choice of variety will depend on local climatic conditions , production objectives and the target market . It is recommended to plant several varieties to ensure cross-pollination and spread out the harvest period . This allows growers to optimize their yield and meet different market demands throughout the season.

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Everbearing blueberries: a strategy for extending the harvest season in market gardening

Although everbearing blueberries are rare , there are a few varieties that offer staggered production or a second harvest within the season . These varieties are particularly attractive to commercial growers looking to extend their production period and maximize their yields .

The HortBlue Petite(s) variety is a remarkable innovation in the field of everbearing blueberries. This variety offers a first harvest in July , followed by a second at the end of August . Its compact shape and limited growth of 1 meter make it an ideal option for farms with space constraints .

Other remontant varieties recommended for professionals include:

• Perpetua : This variety produces a first harvest in July , then a second in September-October . It is appreciated for its resistance to cold and its production of medium-sized fruits with a sweet flavor .
• Peach Sorbet : Although primarily ornamental , this variety can produce fruit throughout the season . Its colorful foliage also makes it an attractive choice for crop diversification .
• Sunshine Blue : This semi-everbearing variety produces medium-sized fruits with a sweet flavor . It is particularly suited to regions with mild winters .

It is important to note that most commercial blueberry varieties are non-everbearing . Everbearing varieties are still in development and their availability may be limited . However, they offer significant advantages for professional growers:

• Spreading production over a longer period, allowing better management of harvests and sales .
• Ability to target off-season markets with potentially higher prices .
• Reduction of risks linked to climatic hazards , production being spread over several periods .

To optimize the production of everbearing blueberries , it is recommended to:

• Ensure regular irrigation and adequate nutrient supply to support continued production.
• Practice suitable pruning to encourage the formation of new fruit-bearing branches .
• Monitor plants carefully to detect and quickly treat any health problems .

In conclusion, although the options are still limited , everbearing blueberry varieties represent an interesting opportunity for professional growers looking to diversify their offerings and extend their production season . As breeding programs advance, we can expect to see new, more efficient everbearing varieties emerge in the coming years.

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Blueberry Planting Calendar: The Best Times to Ensure Optimal Recovery and Good Yield

Planting blueberry bushes is a crucial step to ensure good recovery and maximize future yield . The optimal planting schedule depends on several factors, including your region's climate and the type of plants chosen .

For most regions in France, the ideal time to plant blueberries is from September to November , or from February to May . This wide window allows growers to adapt to local climatic conditions and their growing schedule .

Autumn planting (September to November) has several advantages:

• Better rooting before winter , thanks to the favorable temperature and humidity of the soil.
• Use of autumn rains , reducing irrigation needs.
• Allows plants to establish before growth resumes in spring .

Spring planting (February to May) is also possible and may be preferred in certain situations:

• In regions with harsh winters , it prevents frost damage to young plants.
• It is particularly suitable for container plants , which can be planted almost year-round .

To optimize recovery and future performance, here are some recommendations:

• Plant at least 2 to 3 blueberry bushes side by side to ensure effective cross-pollination .
• Respect the planting distances : 1 m to 1.5 m in the row and at least 3 m between rows for tall varieties.
• Prepare the soil in advance by acidifying it if necessary, as blueberries prefer a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 .
• When planting, be careful not to bury the root collar of the plant and water thoroughly .
• For bare-root plants , plant quickly after receipt to avoid the roots drying out.

It is important to note that the yield of blueberry bushes increases gradually over the years. A small harvest can be expected in the first year after planting, but the first significant yield usually comes two years later .

For professional growers, using the lunar calendar can further optimize planting. In 2025, for example, the best dates for planting blueberries during the waning moon and in fruit/seed days are:

• March : 11, 12, 13
• April : 8, 9, 18
• August : 22, 23, 24 (before 1 p.m.)
• September : 19, 20
• October : 16, 17, 18 (after 11am), 26
• November : 12, 13, 14 (after 12 p.m.)

By following these recommendations and adapting the planting schedule to your local context , you will maximize the chances of success of your blueberry crop and optimize your future yields .

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Ideal conditions for successful professional blueberry planting

For successful professional cultivation of blueberries , it is essential to respect certain ideal planting conditions :

Exposure :

Blueberries thrive in a sunny to partially shaded location . In the northern regions of France , full sun is recommended, while in the south , partial shade is preferable to protect the plants from extreme heat. This flexibility allows the crop to be adapted to different regional climates .

Ground :

Blueberry bushes require acidic soil , with an ideal pH between 4.5 and 5.5 . For naturally acidic soils, simply adding well-rotted bark compost is sufficient. In non-acidic soils, it is necessary to create a suitable environment by digging a pit 50-60 cm deep and wide, lined with geotextile felt and filled with a mixture of heather soil and forest compost .

Drainage:

Good drainage is crucial to avoid waterlogging , which is harmful to the surface roots of blueberries. In hydromorphic soils , it is recommended to create raised mounds of 15 to 20 cm to facilitate drainage.

Planting distances:

For professional cultivation , the recommended planting distances are 1 m to 1.5 m in the row and at least 3 m between rows . These spacings allow good aeration of the plants and facilitate maintenance and harvesting .

Climate :

Blueberries are adapted to various climates , but require a cold period for optimal flowering . A winter temperature below 8°C is necessary to ensure fruit production.

Irrigation:

A drip irrigation system is highly recommended to provide the adequate amount of water and maintain constant soil moisture without saturation.

Pollination:

Although some varieties are self-fertile , having several different varieties promotes better pollination and increases yields . It is advisable to plant at least 2 to 3 different varieties nearby .

Mulching:

Applying organic mulch around the base of the plants helps maintain soil moisture , suppress weeds and keep the soil acidic .

By respecting these ideal conditions , professional producers can optimize the growth and productivity of their blueberry bushes, thus ensuring abundant and quality harvests over the long term .

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What soil is needed for successful professional blueberry cultivation?

Blueberry is a demanding plant in terms of soil conditions , requiring specific characteristics for optimal growth and production.

Favorable soil types:

Blueberries prefer light, well-drained soils rich in organic matter . Sandy or sandy loam soils are particularly suitable. Clay soils should be avoided as they can cause drainage problems and limit root development .

Recommended pH:

The optimal pH for growing blueberries is between 4.5 and 5.5 . A pH between 4.2 and 5.5 is tolerated, but outside this range, nutritional problems can occur:

• At a pH below 3.8 , potassium deficiencies may occur.
• Above 5.5 , iron absorption is impaired , causing chlorosis .

Drainage:

Good drainage is crucial for blueberries, as their roots are susceptible to suffocation . The soil should be moist but never soggy . The water table should not be less than 30 cm below the surface. To improve drainage in heavy soils, planting on 30 to 35 cm high mounds is recommended.

Necessary amendments:

• Soil acidification : If the pH is too high, adding sulfur can help lower it. Approximately 60g of sulfur per linear meter is recommended for mound cultivation or 150kg/ha .
• Organic Matter : Blueberries thrive in soils rich in organic matter , with an ideal level above 9% . Incorporating compost, peat moss, or pine bark can improve soil structure.
• Heather soil : In naturally alkaline soils , creating a suitable environment may require the addition of heather soil mixed with pine bark compost .
• Fertilization : Blueberries have specific nutrient requirements . They preferentially absorb nitrogen in the form of ammonium rather than nitrates. The use of low-nitrogen organic fertilizers is recommended to avoid the risk of root burn .

Mulching:

Applying an organic mulch , such as pine needles or bark , helps maintain soil acidity , retain moisture , and limit weed growth .

Growing above ground in unsuitable soil:

In case of unsuitable soil , soilless cultivation is an interesting alternative. It allows optimal conditions to be created , in particular an acid pH and adequate drainage . The substrate used must ensure good air and water retention , structural stability over time and a stable acid pH .

By meeting these soil requirements , growers can create an optimal environment for blueberry growth and productivity, ensuring abundant, quality harvests .

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Starting a blueberry plot: the key steps for successful professional planting

To successfully start a blueberry plot , it is essential to follow several key steps :

Soil analysis:

Start by conducting a thorough soil analysis to determine its pH , organic matter content , and composition . The ideal pH for blueberries is between 4.5 and 5.5 . If necessary, adjust the pH by incorporating sulfur or acidic peat several months before planting.

Ground preparation:

Loosen the soil deeply (50-60 cm) to promote good drainage . Remove weeds , especially perennials. If natural drainage is insufficient, create mounds 30-35 cm high to prevent root asphyxiation .

Soil amendment:

Incorporate well-rotted organic matter (compost, composted manure) at a rate of 30 to 50 tonnes per hectare . Also add heather soil or pine bark compost to improve soil acidity and structure.

Choice of varieties:

Select a range of varieties suited to your climate and production goals . Combine early, mid-season, and late varieties to spread out the harvest. For example:

• 'Duke' for early production
• 'Bluecrop' for mid-season
• 'Elliott' for a late harvest

Organization of plantations:

Plant in rows 3 to 3.5 meters apart , with 1 to 1.5 meters between plants in the row. This arrangement makes maintenance and mechanized harvesting easier. Alternate varieties in each row to promote cross-pollination .

Irrigation system:

Install a drip irrigation system before planting. Blueberries need constant but not excessive moisture.

Planting:

Plant preferably in the fall or early spring . Dig holes twice as wide as the root balls of the plants. Place the plants slightly deeper than they were in the nursery, making sure to spread the roots well .

Mulching:

Apply a thick mulch (5-10 cm) of pine bark or wood chips around the plants to maintain moisture , control weeds and keep the soil acidic .

Protection:

Install bird netting or audible scarers to protect fruit from winged predators .

Fertilization plan:

Establish a suitable fertilization program , favoring organic or slow-release fertilizers rich in ammoniacal nitrogen , which is better suited to blueberries than nitrate nitrogen.

By following these essential steps and paying careful attention to site preparation and variety selection , you will lay a solid foundation for a productive and sustainable blueberry plot.

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Beneficial associations for blueberries: improving pollination, protection and productivity in market gardening

The judicious combination of different blueberry varieties and their association with companion plants can greatly improve the productivity and health of your crop . Here are the main strategies to adopt:

Combination of blueberry varieties:

It is recommended to plant at least two to three different blueberry varieties side by side to promote effective cross-pollination . This diversity increases yields and improves fruit quality . For example, combining 'Bluecrop' with 'Jersey' and 'Duke' results in a spread-out and abundant harvest .

Associations beneficial to pollination:

Blueberries combine remarkably well with raspberries and strawberries . These three species form a harmonious ensemble that attracts a wide variety of pollinators , thus promoting better fruiting . In addition, this combination offers a varied harvest spread throughout the season.

To attract more pollinators, incorporate honey-producing plants like rhododendrons and azaleas into your blueberry beds. These plants not only attract the insects needed for pollination but also create an aesthetically pleasing and diverse environment .

Protection against diseases and pests:

Combining blueberries with certain companion plants can help provide natural protection against diseases and pests. For example:

• Plant garlic or chives between the rows to repel certain insect pests .
• Include aromatic plants such as thyme or lavender , which attract beneficial insects and repel certain pests.
• Use companion planting with flowering plants such as marigolds or calendulas , which are known for their nematicidal properties and ability to attract beneficial insects .

For optimal protection , it is recommended to regularly spray the plants with a horsetail decoction , especially in hot and humid weather . This practice strengthens the blueberry bushes' natural resistance to fungal diseases .

Finally, to create a delicious and protective hedge , combine your blueberries with blackcurrant and gooseberry bushes . This combination not only offers a variety of fruits , but also creates a natural barrier against certain pests and diseases .

By adopting these association strategies , you will promote a more resilient , productive and environmentally friendly blueberry crop, while optimizing the use of space on your farm.

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Blueberry bush maintenance: best practices for healthy and regular production in market gardening

Blueberry bush maintenance is essential to ensure healthy growth and abundant fruit production . Here are the key aspects to consider:

Watering:

Blueberry bushes need consistently moist but well-drained soil . Regular watering is crucial, especially during the growing and fruiting periods. It is recommended to water deeply once or twice a week , taking care not to soak the soil .

Using a drip irrigation system is ideal for maintaining constant humidity without wetting the foliage, which could encourage the development of fungal diseases .

Fertilization:

Blueberry bushes benefit from fertilization adapted to their specific needs :

• In spring , apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to stimulate vegetative growth.
• In summer , choose a balanced or potassium-rich fertilizer to promote flowering and fruit production.

It is best to use organic fertilizers or fertilizers formulated for acid-loving plants , following the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid over-fertilization.

Preventive treatments:

Prevention is crucial to maintaining the health of blueberry bushes . Here are some effective preventative measures :

• Spray plants regularly with a horsetail decoction , especially in hot, humid weather , to strengthen their natural resistance to fungal diseases .
• Apply organic mulch around plants to maintain moisture , suppress weeds and keep the soil acidic .
• Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants properly and pruning regularly .

Curative treatments:

In the event of health problems, rapid interventions are necessary:

• To control pests such as aphids or mites, use natural insecticides such as pyrethrum or insecticidal soap .
• In case of fungal diseases such as brown rot or powdery mildew, apply appropriate fungicides , favoring organic solutions when possible.
• If you observe signs of iron deficiency (chlorosis) , apply an iron chelate to the base of the plants.

Size :

Regular pruning is essential to maintain the vigor of blueberry bushes and optimize their production :

• Perform annual clean-up pruning to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches .
• On older plants, perform rejuvenation pruning by cutting back one or two old branches to stimulate the growth of new productive shoots .

By following these maintenance practices , you will promote the health and productivity of your blueberry bushes , ensuring abundant, quality harvests year after year.

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Pruning Blueberry Bushes: Professional Techniques to Boost Growth and Production

Pruning and training blueberry bushes are essential to optimize their growth and production . Here are the specific techniques to apply:

Training size:

For young plants , formative pruning is crucial during the first two years :

• First year : Shorten the branches by half to promote a balanced structure .
• Second year : Prune again quite heavily to stimulate branching , which will improve future production capacity .

Annual maintenance pruning:

Carry out maintenance pruning every year , preferably at the end of winter or the beginning of spring :

• Remove dead, diseased or damaged branches .
• Remove weak branches that hang outward from the bush to maintain a compact shape .

Rejuvenation size:

For older plants , perform rejuvenation pruning every two or three years :

• Cut back older branches (over 4 years old) near the base to stimulate the growth of new productive shoots .
• Keep only about twenty 2-year-old branches to optimize production .

Specific techniques to improve growth and production:

• Center ventilation : Remove branches that grow inward from the bush to promote air circulation and light penetration , thus reducing the risk of fungal diseases .
• Pruning low branches : Cut branches that hang close to the ground to facilitate harvesting and prevent fruit from touching the ground.
• Selecting productive branches : keep the branches from the previous year or two years ago at most, as these will produce the most abundant and best quality fruit .
• Thinning : If the bush is too dense, remove some branches to encourage the development of the remaining fruits.
• Green pruning : in summer, after harvesting, you can do a light green pruning to stimulate the growth of new branches that will bear fruit the following year.

For efficient pruning, always use clean, sharp tools to avoid the spread of disease .

Regular and proper pruning of your blueberry bushes will not only promote better fruit production , but will also help maintain the health and vigor of your plants over the long term.

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Blueberry diseases: identification, prevention and appropriate treatments in professional cultivation

Blueberry bushes are prone to several common diseases that can affect their growth and production . Early identification and appropriate solutions are essential to maintaining plant health.

Moniliosis (Monilinia vaccinii-corymbosi):

This fungal disease causes wilting of flowers and young shoots. Symptoms include browning and drying of flowers , as well as the formation of grayish spores .

• Biological treatment : apply a mixture of wettable sulfur (0.3%) and copper (Airone, 280 g/kg of metallic copper) from bud break until the end of flowering.
• Conventional treatment : Use registered fungicides containing thiophanate-methyl or boscalid .

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum acutatum):

This disease manifests itself by lesions on leaves, buds, stems and fruits .

• Biological treatment : spray a horsetail decoction regularly, especially in hot and humid weather .
• Conventional treatment : Apply fungicides based on azoxystrobin or pyraclostrobin .

Rust (Pucciniastrum vaccinii):

It is characterized by orange pustules on the leaves .

• Biological treatment : use a mixture of sulfur and potassium bicarbonate (Vitisan).
• Conventional treatment : apply fungicides based on trifloxystrobin or fluopyram .

Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea):

This disease mainly affects fruits , causing them to rot .

• Biological treatment : use products based on Bacillus amyloliquefaciens ssp. plantarum .
• Conventional treatment : Apply fungicides containing fenhexamid or cyprodinil .

General preventive measures:

• Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants properly and pruning regularly .
• Maintain good soil drainage to avoid excess moisture.
• Promptly remove infected plant parts to limit the spread of disease.

By adopting these preventive measures and intervening quickly as soon as the first symptoms appear , you can significantly reduce the impact of diseases on your blueberry bushes and maintain healthy and abundant production .

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Blueberry pests: integrated control strategies for effective and sustainable protection

Blueberry bushes can be affected by various pests and parasites that threaten their health and productivity . Early identification and an integrated pest management approach are essential to effectively protect crops.

Drosophila suzukii (Asian fruit fly):

This small fly attacks healthy fruit before harvest . The females lay their eggs in the fruit, causing it to rot .

• Prevention : Install fine-mesh (< 1 mm) insect nets to protect crops.
• Biological control : Use apple cider vinegar traps to capture adults.
• Chemical control : In case of severe infestation, approved insecticides can be applied, but only as a last resort .

Aphids:

These small sucking insects weaken plants and can transmit viruses .

• Prevention : encourage the presence of beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings .
• Biological control : spray a diluted black soap solution or use natural predators such as ladybug larvae .
• Chemical control : in case of heavy infestation, use insecticides based on natural pyrethrin .

Blueberry worms (Grapholita packardi):

These caterpillars attack buds and fruits , causing significant damage .

• Prevention : Install pheromone traps to detect their presence early.
• Biological control : use products based on Bacillus thuringiensis , which are effective against larvae.
• Chemical control : in case of heavy infestation, apply specific insecticides according to local recommendations.

Birds:

Although not considered pests in the strict sense , birds can cause significant damage to crops .

• Prevention : Install anti-bird nets or sound scarers .
• Alternative methods : Use visual lures such as scarecrow balloons or reflective tape .

Integrated pest management approach:

For effective and long-lasting protection of blueberry crops, it is recommended to adopt an integrated pest management approach combining several methods:

• Regular monitoring : Inspect your plants frequently to quickly detect any signs of infestation.
• Preventive measures : maintain good hygiene in the plot , eliminate plant debris and promote biodiversity to attract natural predators.
• Cultivation methods : Practice suitable pruning to promote aeration and reduce conditions favorable to pests .
• Biological control : favor the use of natural auxiliaries and biological products before any chemical treatment.
• Chemical treatments : only use pesticides as a last resort , choosing selective products and respecting the doses and application periods .

By combining these different approaches and remaining vigilant, you can significantly reduce the impact of parasites and pests on your blueberry crops, while preserving the ecological balance of your farm.

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Blueberry harvest: best practices to ensure quality and yield in market gardening

Blueberry harvesting is a crucial step in ensuring the fruit's commercial quality . Careful and timely picking optimizes production and preserves the berries' organoleptic qualities .

Harvest period:

The blueberry harvest period generally extends from the end of May to the end of September , depending on the varieties and regions :

• Early varieties like 'Bluetta' and 'Patriot' can be harvested as early as June.
• Late varieties like 'Berkeley' and 'Darrow' produce until mid-September.

Maturity indices:

Blueberries are ready to harvest when they are a uniform blue color and easily detach from the plant. It is recommended to leave the fruit on the plants for 3 to 5 days after they have reached their final color to optimize their sugar and antioxidant content.

Harvesting techniques:

For efficient and respectful fruit harvesting:

• Pick blueberries by rolling them gently with your fingertips in the palm of your hand to avoid damaging the protective waxy film .
• Use shallow containers to avoid crushing the fruit. Clamshell cans of approximately 1/4 liter are recommended for the professional market.
• For large-scale harvests, choose buckets worn over the shoulder or attached to the belt to free up both hands of the picker.
• Make several passes (5 to 6) as the fruit ripens.

Quality Preservation:

• Harvest preferably in the morning , when the fruit is still fresh.
• Protect fruit from the sun after picking by using covered containers or shade material during transport.
• Cool the fruit quickly after harvesting. Storage at 0°C with a relative humidity between 90 and 95% is optimal.
• Handle fruit carefully and limit transfers to avoid shocks that could harm their preservation.

Yield and storage:

• Production can vary from 2 to 6 kg per plant in intensive cultivation.
• Blueberries are best stored for 3 to 5 days after harvest.
• With proper post-harvest management , they can be stored for up to 2 weeks .

By following these recommendations , producers can ensure a high-quality blueberry harvest , meeting the requirements of the professional market and guaranteeing consumer satisfaction .

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Blueberry Propagation: Effective Methods for Professional Production

Blueberry bushes can be propagated by several methods , each with advantages and limitations for professional production:

Cuttings:

Cuttings are the most commonly used method for propagating blueberries in professional production. There are two main types:

• Woody cuttings : carried out in winter with branches from the previous year . Simple and inexpensive technique, but with a variable success rate depending on the variety.
• Herbaceous cuttings : carried out in spring or summer with tender shoots . Higher success rate and faster growth , but requires specific installations (greenhouses, misting).

Advantages of cuttings:

• Faithful reproduction of the characteristics of the mother plant
• Production of large quantities of identical plants
• Relatively low cost

Boundaries :

• Need for suitable facilities for herbaceous cuttings
• Risk of disease transmission if the mother plant is infected

Layering:

Layering is a technique less used in professional production, but can be interesting for certain varieties that are difficult to propagate .

• Layering : a branch is partially buried and develops into a new plant.
• Air layering : an incision is made on a branch and surrounded by moist substrate to encourage rooting.

Advantages of layering:

• High success rate
• Suitable for varieties that are difficult to propagate

Boundaries :

• Slow process , not suitable for large-scale production
• Requires more labor than cuttings

Division:

Clump division is a simple but less common method for propagating blueberries in professional production. It involves separating a mature plant into several parts, each with roots and stems .

Advantages of division:

• Simple and quick method
• Grow larger plants in a shorter time

Boundaries :

• Limited number of new plants obtained
• Risk of damaging roots when dividing

For professional blueberry production , cuttings remain the preferred method due to their ability to produce large numbers of identical plants at low cost . Softwood cuttings , in particular, offer high success rates and rapid growth , although they require suitable facilities.

Layering and division can be used as complementary methods , especially for varieties that are difficult to propagate or to quickly obtain larger plants . However, these techniques are generally less suitable for large-scale production .

By combining these different methods , professional growers can optimize blueberry propagation based on the varieties grown and their production goals .

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Botanical species: understanding the basis of classification to cultivate better

A species is a fundamental unit of biological classification that groups together organisms that share common characteristics and are capable of reproducing among themselves to produce viable and fertile offspring .

In the plant kingdom , a species represents a group of plants with similar botanical traits that can hybridize naturally .

Botanical classification places species at the fifth taxonomic rank , after kingdom , division , class , order , and family . For example, the common blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) belongs to the family Ericaceae , genus Vaccinium , and is a distinct species within that genus.

Main biological characteristics of a plant species:

• Morphology : Each species has specific morphological traits , such as leaf shape, flower structure or fruit type.
• Genetics : individuals of the same species share a common genetic heritage , allowing their interfertility .
• Ecology : A species generally occupies a particular ecological niche , adapted to its needs in terms of climate, soil and interactions with other organisms.
• Reproduction : Reproductive mechanisms are specific to each species, whether sexual or asexual reproduction.
• Life cycle : Each species has a characteristic life cycle , which can be annual, biennial or perennial.

It is important to note that defining a species can sometimes be complex , especially in plants where interspecific hybridization is common . In addition, the classification of species is constantly evolving with advances in research in genetics and phylogeny .

In the context of professional cultivation , understanding the specific characteristics of a species is crucial to optimize its production , multiplication and agronomic management .

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History of the blueberry bush: from wild picking to professional cultivation

The blueberry , an emblematic fruit of mountainous regions, has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times . Native to the northern regions of Europe and North America , the wild blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) was already known and consumed by the first inhabitants of these areas.

In Europe , wild blueberries grew naturally in mountain ranges , particularly in the Vosges , the Alps and the Massif Central . They were traditionally picked by local populations as a dietary supplement and source of income . In the high plateaus of Ardèche , for example, picking wild blueberries represented a significant economic contribution , sometimes making it possible to finance children's studies .

In North America , early European explorers discovered that Native Americans were already making extensive use of blueberries. In 1615 , Samuel de Champlain observed that Native Americans were harvesting wild blueberries, drying them, and grinding them into a paste, which was then mixed with corn, honey, and water to create a pudding. Native Americans also used it for its medicinal properties , including making a relaxing tea from the roots.

The evolution of blueberry cultivation took a major turn in the early 20th century . In 1908 , American botanist Frederick Coville began research into the domestication of wild blueberries. Together with Elizabeth White , a New Jersey grower, they developed the first cultivated varieties . Their first commercial harvest took place in 1916 , marking the beginning of commercial cultivation of this fruit.

In France , the development of blueberry cultivation began later, from 1985. French farmers introduced North American varieties , which were more resistant and voluminous than their wild counterparts. In 1987 , the Syndicat des Producteurs de Myrtilles de France (SPMF) was created to bring together farmers specializing in blueberry production.

Today, blueberry cultivation is present in at least 30 countries , thanks to genetic progress and the evolution of cultivation practices . In France, the main production areas are in the Rhône-Alpes region, the Southwest and the Loire Valley .

The history of the blueberry thus illustrates the transition from traditional harvesting to modern professional cultivation , while retaining its cultural and economic importance in the regions where it is cultivated.