A classic and one of the earliest Blueberries to ripen and one of our favorites, Duke Blueberry bears good crops of sweet, firm, and tasty fruit. We like them so much, they often disappear before we can get them home. Reliable and very productive, one Duke plant can produce over 20 lbs. of berries. These powder-blue berries begin ripening in early July.
Latin Name: Vaccinium corymbosum
Site and Soil: Blueberries like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained, acidic soil.
Pollination Requirements: Blueberries are self-fertile. Plant two varieties for greater fruit production.
Hardiness: Duke is hardy to minus 30° F.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 4-5 ft. in height and spread.
Bloom Time: April
Ripening Time: July
Yield: 15-20 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Blueberries are not bothered by significant pest or disease problems. Scare birds away with Mylar Flash Tape or deter them by covering your plants with netting.
USDA Zone: 4
Sunset Western Zone: 2-9, 14-17
Sunset Northeast Zone: 32, 34-43