Blueberry 'Northland'

In the first year after planting remove most of the flowers to encourage a strong root system.

Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Northland is thought of as very hardy, so this plant will tend to go dormant over the long winter months. Planting Northland in loamy, chalky and clay soil with a ph of between 4.5 and 6.5 is ideal for as it does best in moderately acidic soil to weakly acidic soil.

When transplanting, take care not to disturb the roots too much as this reduces transplant stress. Prepare the soil well before planting by adding lots of organic matter and well rotted manure. Once planted water in well with a weak seaweed soloution and then mulch well to retain moisture and to suppress weeds.

As Northland is very hardy, ensure temperatures are mild enough to plant out - wait until after your last frost date to be on the safe side.

This variety tends to be ready for harvesting by late summer.

Highbush blueberries originated from North America. For centuries, blueberries were gathered from the forests and the bogs by Native Americans and consumed fresh and also preserved. The Northeast Native American tribes revered blueberries and much folklore developed around them. The blossom end of each berry, the calyx, forms the shape of a perfect five-pointed star; the elders of the tribe would tell of how the Great Spirit sent “star berries” to relieve the children’s hunger during a famine. Parts of the blueberry plant were also used as medicine. A tea made from the leaves of the plant was thought to be good for the blood. Blueberry juice was used to treat coughs. The juice also made an excellent dye for baskets and cloth. In food preparation, dried blueberries were added to stews, soups and meats. The dried berries were also crushed into a powder and rubbed into meat for flavor. Blueberries were also used for medicinal purposes along with the leaves and roots.

Highbush Blueberry