Blueberry - Chandler

Chandler Blueberries: A Top Choice for Flavor and Yield
Chandler blueberries are celebrated for producing exceptionally large, sweet, and firm berries, ideal for eating fresh, baking, or preserving. These hardy plants are well-suited to cooler climates and are known for their consistent productivity and strong resistance to disease.

Planting Chandler Blueberries

Choose the Right Spot:
Pick a sunny area in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Chandler blueberries rely on full sun to develop flavorful, high-quality fruit.

Prepare the Soil:
These plants do best in acidic, well-draining soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If your garden soil tends to be heavy or more alkaline, mix in organic materials such as peat moss to enhance drainage and lower the pH.

Dig the Planting Hole:
Create a hole twice as wide as the root ball and about the same depth. This gives the roots space to expand and establish themselves.

Planting the Bush:
Carefully remove the Chandler blueberry from its container and place it in the hole so the root ball is level with the ground surface. Refill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.

Watering In:
Thoroughly water the plant after planting to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots.

Caring for Chandler Blueberries

Watering Needs:
Chandler blueberries require consistent watering, particularly while flowering and fruiting. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, to avoid root rot. During dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary.

Pruning Tips:
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut away dead, damaged, or weak branches to improve air circulation and maintain the plant’s structure. Light annual pruning encourages stronger fruit production.

Fertilizing:
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants in early spring and again after harvesting. Avoid overfeeding, especially with nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which can cause excess leafy growth at the expense of fruit.

Mulching:
Apply a 2 to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.