Wild Blueberry Fact Sheet

Fertilization of Wild Lowbush Blueberries

Research results suggest that soil and leaf analyses alone do not seem to be a reliable gauge to use when determining whether to apply fertilizer to a wild blueberry field, what type of fertilizers should be applied, or how much should be applied. However, soil and leaf samples together with knowledge of field yield history and with visual observation of the plants can be a rough guide. For example, if plants in a particular field are short, some fertilizer may be required.

It is recommended that soil and leaf samples be taken in each field every four years. Samples should be taken at the tip dieback stage of the sprout year (approximately the middle of July).

Soil samples should be representative of the field and should be taken to include the first 15 cm including the organic pad. Soil should be taken at several locations in the field, mixed well and placed in a soil sample box. The box should be clearly marked with your name, address and field number.

Leaf samples should be representative of the field and should include all the leaves from at least 50 stems. Place the leaves in a paper bag and keep dry. The bag should be clearly marked with your name, address and field number.

Take soil and leaf samples to your Agricultural Representative's office or to Analytical Services, Quality Evaluation, Harlow Institute (NSAC campus), Truro, Nova Scotia, B2N 5E3.

For registered growers, the cost for each standard soil analysis is $5 + HST; each standard leaf analysis is $12 + HST.

After you receive the analysis report, if you require interpretation and recommendations, please contact the Blueberry Specialist or your Agricultural Representative.