{"product_id":"blueberry-blueray","title":"Blueberry, Blueray","description":"\u003ch3\u003eBlueray (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Blueray')\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlueray is an old favorite, known for its high quality, large, powder blue berries with outstanding dessert flavor! This mid-season variety produces some of the most flavorful fruit of any highbush blueberry, making it a top choice for fresh eating. Blueray is also noted for its striking pink blooms, which transition to white, adding ornamental value to the garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eKey Characteristics:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Flavor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blueray’s large, flavorful berries are perfect for fresh eating, desserts, and preserves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrnamental Value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Beautiful pink and white blossoms in spring provide visual interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Yield:\u003c\/strong\u003e Known for consistent high yields, Blueray is a reliable producer for home gardens and small farms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCold Winter, Hot Summer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Performs particularly well in areas with very cold winters and hot summers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eProduct Details:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature Height:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4-6 feet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit Time:\u003c\/strong\u003e Early to mid-season \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit Qualities:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large, sweet berries, firm texture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChill Hours:\u003c\/strong\u003e 800-1000 hours\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePollination Partners:\u003c\/strong\u003e Best pollinated by Bluecrop, Jersey, or Patriot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSDA Hardiness Zones:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4-7\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlueberries are a valuable addition to fruit tree guilds in permaculture systems. Positioned in the shrub layer, they benefit from the shade and protection of larger trees while providing ground-level diversity. Their flowers attract pollinators, and their roots help with moisture retention, enhancing the overall health and productivity of the guild. Their nutrient-dense berries offer a reliable food source, complementing the fruit production of the larger trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNorthern highbush blueberries are best suited for cooler climates, thriving in USDA zones 4-7. These plants require well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5) and full sun for optimal fruit production. Blueberries benefit from mulch to retain moisture, prevent weeds, and protect shallow roots. Consistent watering is essential, especially during fruiting. Blueberries are self-fertile but cross-pollination increases the overall yield, improves the size and quality of the berries, and leads to a more abundant harvest. Add organic compost or sulfur to the soil to maintain its acidity. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and more abundant fruiting.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Farm Connection","offers":[{"title":"2 Gallon \/ 2-3'","offer_id":49309102080259,"sku":"SFS-5096","price":1.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 Gallon \/ 2-3'","offer_id":45930350772483,"sku":"SFS-5053","price":29.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0675\/1128\/8067\/files\/4D80147B-1CEE-4121-99E9-927CABA08ACB.jpg?v=1726170077","url":"https:\/\/tfcnursery.com\/products\/blueberry-blueray","provider":"The Farm Connection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}