Lowbush Blueberries: A Sweet Treat from the Wild
Lowbush blueberries, also known as wild blueberries, are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be found in sandy forests, meadows, and bogs. They are smaller than cultivated highbush blueberries, but their flavor is more concentrated. Lowbush blueberries are also very cold-hardy, making them a good choice for gardeners in northern climates.
What is a Lowbush Blueberry?
Lowbush blueberries are a type of blueberry that grows wild in North America. They are smaller than cultivated blueberries, but they have a more intense flavor. Lowbush blueberries are typically found in sandy, acidic soil. They can grow to be between 6 and 24 inches tall.
Growing Lowbush Blueberries
Lowbush blueberries can be grown from seed or rhizomes. Rhizomes are underground stems that can be found near the base of the plant. To grow lowbush blueberries from rhizomes, plant them 8 inches apart in well-drained soil that has been amended with peat, compost, or sawdust. The soil should have a pH of 4.5 to 5.2.
Keep the plants watered during the growing season. Remove the flowers from each plant for the first year or two to ensure strong growth of the roots. Flowers are produced on second year growth.
Caring for Lowbush Blueberries
Lowbush blueberries are relatively easy to care for. They require well-drained, acidic soil. They should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Lowbush blueberries should be pruned every other year to maintain berry production. Prune just after harvest to remove older, less productive growth.
Harvesting Lowbush Blueberries
Lowbush blueberries are ready to harvest in mid to late summer. The berries are ripe when they are deep blue and slightly soft to the touch. To harvest lowbush blueberries, gently pick them from the plant. Avoid pulling on the stems, as this can damage the plant.
Nutritional Benefits of Lowbush Blueberries
Lowbush blueberries are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune system health. Lowbush blueberries are also a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health.
Where to Buy Lowbush Blueberries
Lowbush blueberries can be found at most grocery stores and farmers markets. They can also be purchased online.
Conclusion
Lowbush blueberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are easy to grow and care for, and they can be used in a variety of recipes.
