Pollination Information for Bluegold Blueberry

The Bluegold Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluegold') is a highbush blueberry cultivar that requires cross-pollination to produce a good yield of fruit. The flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning they have both male and female parts, but they still need a different blueberry variety to serve as a pollinator.

Cross-Pollination

Blueberries are generally self-incompatible, which means the pollen from one flower cannot fertilize its own ovules. To ensure that the Bluegold Blueberry produces a good crop of fruit, it needs to be cross-pollinated with another highbush blueberry variety. This means that the pollen from the flowers of one blueberry plant needs to be transferred to the flowers of another blueberry plant.

Pollination Partners

Good pollination partners for the Bluegold Blueberry include other highbush blueberry varieties, such as:

• Bluecrop
• Jersey
• Nelson
• Spartan

It's important to choose a pollination partner that blooms at the same time as the Bluegold Blueberry. In general, most highbush blueberry varieties bloom in mid to late spring, but the timing can vary depending on climate and growing conditions.

Pollinators

In addition to choosing the right pollination partner, it's also important to have enough pollinators present in the orchard. Honeybees are the most effective pollinators for blueberries, but other bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds can also help with pollination. It's important to maintain healthy populations of these pollinators by minimizing pesticide use and providing them with a variety of nectar and pollen sources throughout the year.

Conclusion

The Bluegold Blueberry is a delicious and nutritious fruit that requires cross-pollination to produce a good crop. Choosing the right pollination partner and ensuring that enough pollinators are present in the orchard is key to maximizing fruit production.

Bluegold Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluegold') FAQ

What is the Bluegold Blueberry?

The Bluegold Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluegold') is a variety of the highbush blueberry that produces large, sweet berries in mid- to late-season.

What are the characteristics of the Bluegold Blueberry?

The Bluegold Blueberry grows to a height of 4-6 feet and a spread of 3-5 feet. It has a uniform, upright habit and glossy green leaves that turn a bright red in the fall. The fruit is large and sweet, with a firm texture and a light blue color.

When does the Bluegold Blueberry produce fruit?

The Bluegold Blueberry produces fruit in mid- to late-season, typically in July and August.

Does the Bluegold Blueberry require cross-pollination?

Yes, the Bluegold Blueberry requires cross-pollination with another highbush blueberry variety in order to produce fruit.

What is the best soil for the Bluegold Blueberry?

The Bluegold Blueberry prefers acidic soil with a pH of 4.5-5.5. It also requires well-draining soil with high organic matter content.

How much sunlight does the Bluegold Blueberry need?

The Bluegold Blueberry performs best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.

What kind of maintenance is required for the Bluegold Blueberry?

The Bluegold Blueberry requires regular watering and annual pruning to maintain a healthy shape. It also benefits from fertilization in the spring and fall.

What pests and diseases are common to the Bluegold Blueberry?

The Bluegold Blueberry is susceptible to mummy berry, twig blight, stem canker, and root rot. It is also commonly attacked by birds and other fruit-eating animals.

Can the Bluegold Blueberry be grown in containers?

Yes, the Bluegold Blueberry can be grown in containers with the appropriate soil mix and sufficient drainage.

Planting & Care for Bluegold Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluegold')

Planting

Choose a spot that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day) and has well-drained soil. Blueberries prefer soil with a pH between 4.5-5.5. If your soil is too alkaline, incorporate sulfur or sphagnum peat moss into the soil before planting.

Dig a hole twice the width of the rootball and just as deep. Place the blueberry plant in the hole, leaving the top of the rootball level with the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil and tamp it down gently. Water thoroughly.

Care

Watering: Blueberries require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Be sure to water deeply so that the entire root zone is moistened.

Fertilizing: Apply an acidic fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 mix, in early spring before new growth appears. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount to apply.

Pruning: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased wood, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Also remove any low branches that may touch the ground. This will improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

Pests & Diseases: Blueberries may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis blight. To prevent these diseases, avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. Blueberries may also be attacked by birds, so consider covering the bushes with bird netting during the fruiting season.

Harvesting: Blueberries are ready for harvest when they are fully blue and have a slight grayish haze on the surface. The berries should come off the stem easily with a gentle tug. Harvest as soon as the fruit is ripe to avoid bird damage or rot.

By following these planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious Bluegold Blueberries!