Duke Blueberry
One of the earliest Blueberries to ripen, and one of our classic favorites, Duke Blueberry bears good crops of sweet, firm, and tasty fruit. We like them so much, they often disappear before we can get them home. Reliable and very productive, one Duke plant can produce over 20 lbs. of berries. These powder-blue berries begin ripening in early July.
Click here to read our Blueberry Growing Guide.
Latin Name: Vaccinium corymbosum
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: July
Taste: Sweet
Fruit Size: Large
Texture: Firm
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.
Yield: 15-20 lbs.
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: 4-8