Pollination Information for Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade (Vaccinium corymbosum 'FC12-187'):

Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade is a self-fertile blueberry bush, which means that it can produce fruit without cross-pollination with another blueberry variety. However, it is recommended to plant another blueberry bush nearby for improved pollination and higher fruit yields.

If there are no other blueberry bushes nearby, using a different blueberry variety that blooms at a similar time can provide adequate cross-pollination. Some recommended varieties include Duke, Bluecrop, and Northland.

Blueberry bushes are typically pollinated by bees, bumblebees, and other insects. Proper garden maintenance, such as minimizing pesticide use and providing nesting habitats for pollinators, can help increase pollination success.

It is important to note that excessive rains during bloom time or spring frosts can decrease pollination and fruit set, regardless of nearby pollinators.

Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade (Vaccinium corymbosum 'FC12-187’) FAQ

• What is a Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade is a variety of blueberry bush that has been specifically bred for patio containers. It is a compact plant that produces large, sweet and juicy berries in mid to late summer.

• How big does it grow?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade typically grows to be about 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it an ideal plant for small spaces and patio container gardens.

• What are the planting requirements?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade grows best in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH level between 4.5-5.5. It prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. It is also important to ensure that the plant has enough space in the container to grow and spread its roots. For best results, plant in a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter.

• How do I fertilize it?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade should be fertilized once in the spring and once in the summer using a slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants. You can also use a natural fertilizer, such as compost, once a year in the spring. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant.

• How much water does it need?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade needs to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought. The soil should be kept moist to the touch but not soggy.

• When and how do I prune it?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade can be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune any dead or damaged branches and remove any branches that are rubbing against each other. You can also prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Be careful not to remove too much of the plant, as this can reduce fruit production.

• When and how do I harvest the berries?

  Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade produces fruit in mid to late summer. The berries will turn a dark blue color when they are ripe and should easily come off the plant when gently pulled. Harvest the berries by gently removing them from the plant with your fingers or pruning shears. Be careful not to damage the plant or the unripe berries.

Planting & Care for Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade

Vaccinium corymbosum 'FC12-187'

Planting:

• Choose a spot in full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil.
• Plant in the spring or fall.
• Space plants 4-5 feet apart.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
• Place the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Backfill the hole and tamp down the soil.
• Water the plant thoroughly.
• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Care:

• Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize once in the early spring with an acid-loving plant fertilizer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood.
• Harvest berries when they are fully ripe.
• Protect the plant from birds and other wildlife by covering it with netting.

With proper care, Bushel Berry Midnight Cascade can produce abundant, flavorful fruit for many years.