When To Plant Blueberry Bushes in Kentucky

Kentucky has a number of you-pick blueberry farms.

Blueberry farms in Kentucky can produce between 5,000 and 11,000 lb. per acre, according to the University of Kentucky. Home growers can also have success growing this fruit both in gardens and containers.

Dormant

Kentucky blueberry bushes should be planted while they are dormant. This is after the last frost in the fall and before the ground thaws completely in spring. This is typically anywhere from mid- to late October in autumn and from late March to early April in the spring.

Direction

Plant rows in a north to south direction if possible so there can be a consistent amount of afternoon sunlight. Dig a hole that is 1 to 2 inches deeper than the root system of the bush. Add a 4- to 6-inch thick layer of tree bark or shredded leaves around the blueberries. Doing these things can help ensure your plants can survive the harsh Kentucky winters.

Varieties

Plant the right variety for your area of the state. In western Kentucky, you can select Sierra, Bluecrop or Nelson. Ozarkblue does well in eastern Kentucky. Spartan and Bluejay bushes grow well in all areas of the bluegrass state. Duke blueberries thrive in north-central and eastern areas.

References

• University of Kentucky: Growing Highbush Blueberries in Kentucky
• National Weather Service: Kentucky Fall Frost Dates
• National Weather Service: Kentucky Spring Frost Dates