Organic Blueberry Bushes

Soil pH

• Blueberries need acidic soil to thrive. Strong, healthy plants resist disease and produce more fruit. Conduct a soil test to determine soil pH. The United States Highbush Blueberry Council recommends soil pH between 4.09 and 5.0. Add organic garden lime sourced from limestone, dolomite, shell or marl.

Fertilizer

• Blueberries need nitrogen to produce shoots, buds and fruit. Fertilizers are labeled according to the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium -- NPK -- contained in the formula. Choose an organic 16-8-8 fertilizer.

Pests

• Birds and blueberry maggots are the most common blueberry pests. Michigan State University recommends low-toxicity neem, pyrethrum, or spinosad to control maggots. All are certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use on organically grown crops. To protect ripe blueberries from hungry birds, drape lightweight row covers over the bushes.