{"product_id":"blueberry-rubel","title":"Blueberry, Rubel","description":"\u003ch3\u003eRubel (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Rubel')\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRubel is an heirloom variety known for its small, intensely flavored berries. Although the berries are smaller than modern cultivars, they are packed with antioxidants and have a strong, rich blueberry flavor. Rubel is a hardy, productive variety that has been grown for over a century and is prized for its heirloom flavor. It’s a great choice for those looking to grow a traditional blueberry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eKey Characteristics:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Antioxidant Content:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rubel berries are a wild selection and are therefore higher in antioxidant levels, scoring almost twice as high as most other blueberry varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSmall, Flavorful Berries:\u003c\/strong\u003e While smaller than modern varieties, Rubel’s berries have an intense, rich blueberry flavor that’s perfect for fresh eating or baking into muffins!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeirloom Variety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rubel is one of the oldest cultivated blueberry varieties, known for its reliable yields and adaptability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBright Fire Red Fall Foliage\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\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, Upright\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit Time:\u003c\/strong\u003e Late-Mid Season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit Qualities:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small berries, intensely flavored, high in antioxidants\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 Pair with Bluecrop, Jersey, or Blueray for the best fruit set.\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":49309249732867,"sku":"SFS-5076","price":1.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 Gallon \/ 2-3'","offer_id":45930395074819,"sku":"SFS-5203","price":29.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0675\/1128\/8067\/files\/bare-root-blueberries-in-buckets_94fa6f93-02dd-41ab-a5e8-4cc2c71554d3.jpg?v=1726140352","url":"https:\/\/tfcnursery.com\/products\/blueberry-rubel","provider":"The Farm Connection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}