Propagation of Blueberries From Seed

Propagating blueberries from seeds is more difficult than propagating from cuttings.

Blueberries are fruiting bushes that produce sweet berries throughout the late summer. There are a number of varieties to choose from, and making the decision to start from seed is one that needs careful consideration.

Seeds

The Northwest Berry & Grape Information Network states that while seeds can be used to propagate blueberries, they do not breed true to type. Instead, seeds are typically used in breeding programs to develop new strains, rather than in the garden to produce blueberries.

Conditions

Blueberry seeds should be sown on the surface of moist sphagnum moss and exposed to light to germinate. It takes blueberry seeds between three and eight weeks to germinate. Another effective growing medium for blueberry seeds is a 1-to-1 ratio of sphagnum moss and sand.

Alternatives

Blueberries are typically cultivated through both hardwood and softwood cuttings. While hardwood cuttings are hardier and easier to handle, softwood cuttings allow the bush to be trained more effectively.

References

• Northwest Berry & Grape Information Network
• North Carolina State University: Growing Blueberries in the Home Garden