Draper Blueberry
Draper Blueberry was developed at Michigan State University and renowned for its hardiness, ‘Draper’ is an ideal blueberry plant for edible landscaping around the home. Draper has become a standout variety in mid and high chill climates throughout the West. It has a compact habit, ripens early to mid-season, is highly productive as a young plant and has outstanding quality fruit. Draper has exceptionally firm berries and concentrates its ripening. The berries have excellent post-harvest color retention and superior shelf life. It is extremely fast to hand-pick and also has potential to be harvested by machine. After only 3 years in the market, Draper fruit has become a leading choice for both fresh and IQF markets and has also performed well in controlled atmosphere storage.
U.S. Plant Patent 15,103
Click here to view our Blueberry Growing Guide.
Latin Name: Vaccinium corymbosum hybrid
Site and Soil: Blueberries like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained, acidic soil.
Pollination Requirements: Partially self-fertile. Plant two varieties for greater fruit production.
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 30° F.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 4-5 ft. in height and spread.
Bloom Time: April
Ripening Time: Late July
Taste: Sweet
Fruit Size: Large
Texture: Firm
Yield: 15-20 lbs.
Care: Blueberries prefer acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5). Fertilize in early spring with a granular or liquid acid fertilizer. In late winter prune out any dead branches. After harvest, prune non fruit-bearing branches, leaving new branches to fruit the following season.
Pests & Diseases: Blueberries are not bothered by significant pest or disease problems. Scare birds away with Mylar Flash Tape or deter them by covering your plants with netting.
USDA Zone: 3-7