Pollination Information for Toro Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Toro')

Toro Blueberry is a deciduous shrub that requires cross-pollination to produce fruit. This means that you need at least two different varieties of blueberry plants that flower at the same time to ensure that the flowers get pollinated.

The ideal pollination partner for Toro blueberry is another highbush blueberry such as Bluecrop, Jersey, or Elliot. However, other cultivars that bloom at the same time can also be used.

Avoid planting two varieties that have the same number as their name, as they are more likely to bloom at different times and not be good pollination partners. For example, planting Toro and Duke (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Duke') is not recommended.

To increase the chances of successful pollination, plant the blueberry bushes within 100 feet of each other. Bees are the primary pollinators of blueberries, so it's important to garden organically and avoid using pesticides that could harm bees or other beneficial insects.

Blueberry bushes are generally self-incompatible, which means that they can't pollinate their own flowers. This makes cross-pollination even more critical for a successful harvest.

Toro Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Toro') - FAQ

General Information

• What is Toro Blueberry? Toro Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Toro') is a highbush blueberry variety known for its exceptionally large fruit size and sweet taste.
• When does Toro Blueberry produce fruit? Toro Blueberry typically produces fruit in mid to late season, around July and August.
• What is the best climate for growing Toro Blueberry? Toro Blueberry is best suited for a climate with cool winters and moderate summers.

Planting and Growing

• What kind of soil does Toro Blueberry prefer? Toro Blueberry prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
• How much sun does Toro Blueberry need? Toro Blueberry needs full sun to produce the best quality fruit.
• How often should Toro Blueberry be watered? Toro Blueberry needs consistent moisture, so it should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
• What kind of fertilizer should be used for Toro Blueberry? Toro Blueberry will benefit from a balanced fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.

Pruning and Maintenance

• When is the best time to prune Toro Blueberry? Toro Blueberry should be pruned in late winter while it is still dormant.
• How much should Toro Blueberry be pruned? Toro Blueberry should be pruned to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any weak or crowded growth.
• What kind of pests and diseases are common for Toro Blueberry? Toro Blueberry is susceptible to pests such as aphids, mites, and fruitworms, as well as diseases such as mummy berry and phytophthora root rot.

Harvesting and Storage

• When is Toro Blueberry ready to be harvested? Toro Blueberry is ready to be harvested when the berries are fully blue and have a sweet taste.
• How should Toro Blueberry be stored? Toro Blueberry should be stored in a cool, dry place and can be refrigerated for up to two weeks.
• Can Toro Blueberry be frozen? Yes, Toro Blueberry can be frozen for long-term storage.

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

Planting

• Choose a location with full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) and well-draining soil. Blueberries prefer acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
• Plant in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.
• Dig a hole that is two to three times as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly.
• Space plants about 4-6 feet apart.

Care

• Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Mulch with pine straw or bark to maintain soil moisture and prevent weeds.
• Fertilize with an acid-forming fertilizer in the spring and again in the summer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and encourage new growth.
• Protect from birds by covering the plants with netting.

With proper care, your Toro Blueberry plant should produce a bountiful harvest of plump, tasty berries!