{"product_id":"blueberry-elliot","title":"Blueberry, Elliot","description":"\u003ch3\u003eElliott (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Elliott')\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElliott is one of the latest-ripening highbush blueberry varieties, extending the blueberry season well into late summer. Its small-to-medium berries are firm, mildly tart, and excellent for fresh eating, baking, or freezing. Elliott is particularly well-suited to cooler climates, thriving in areas with cold winters and moderate summer temperatures. It offers abundant crops and is known for its long storage life after harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eKey Characteristics:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLate-Season Harvest:\u003c\/strong\u003e Extends the blueberry season into late summer, ripening in August to early September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirm, Tart Berries:\u003c\/strong\u003e The berries are small to medium-sized, firm, and mildly tart, perfect for pies and jams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCold Hardy:\u003c\/strong\u003e Elliott is highly cold-tolerant, making it a great choice for northern climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLong Storage Life:\u003c\/strong\u003e Berries keep their firmness and flavor well after harvest, making them ideal for freezing and storing.\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 Very Late season (August to September)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit Qualities:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small-to-medium, firm, mildly tart berries\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 cross-pollinated with Bluecrop, Nelson, or Jersey.\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":49309117284611,"sku":"SFS-5036","price":1.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 Gallon \/ 2-3'","offer_id":45930374299907,"sku":"SFS-5213","price":29.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0675\/1128\/8067\/files\/9D3CBF3A-84A1-454E-BB4B-49D6C8E396A9.jpg?v=1726170608","url":"https:\/\/tfcnursery.com\/products\/blueberry-elliot","provider":"The Farm Connection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}