Emerald Southern Highbush Blueberry – 1 Gallon Pot

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Fruit Flavor:  Mild Blueberry

Released by the University of Florida, Emerald Southern Highbush Blueberry produces extremely heavy crops of the largest and some of the highest quality berries of the southern hybrids. The fruits start coming early season and continue over a long period, allowing for multiple harvests. With very low chill hour requirements (150-200 hours), it thrives as far south as central Florida, but we hear it also does well in the Northwest areas where winters are mild. The plump and delcious medium-blue berries have a mild-sweet blueberry flavor and are perfect for fresh eating off the bush or in fruit salads, cereals and even baked pies. Emerald is self-fertile however will produce more abundant berries when cross pollinated with other early season southern highbush varieties. The vigorous 5 to 6 feet tall bushes also have abundant foliage so are ideal for use in groupings or as a hedge in the edible landscape. Hardy in USDA Zones 8-10.

Blueberry plants grow best in an acidic (pH of 4.8 to 5.2), organically rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. The more sun the better for best berry production. The shallow, fibrous roots of blueberry plants like a consistently moist but well-drained soil which can be provided by with a layer of organic mulch. Although blueberries are self-fertile, cross-pollination produces the best fruit crop (larger berries and larger yields). Therefore it is best to plant more than one variety that will bloom at the same time. Blueberry season can be extended by planting early, mid-season and late varieties. Make sure to plant two different cultivars/varieties for each season. USDA Zones: 8a-10  Find Your Zone