Pruning highbush blueberry
Advice for October in the Netherlands
Young blueberries need little pruning. Older bushes benefit from space, healthy fruit buds and gradual renewal of old wood.
Which situation matches your plant?
Highbush blueberry — Newly planted, first two years — October
Check this first
Allow the young bush to establish its structure. Only make targeted cuts for clear damage or rubbing branches; routine shaping or renewal is usually unnecessary during the first two years.
Pay attention to this
- This advice covers highbush blueberry, Vaccinium corymbosum.
- Keep branches with healthy plump flower buds; do not shear the bush like a hedge.
- When renewing a mature bush, remove no more than about a quarter of the oldest stems at once.
Frequently asked questions
- Should a young blueberry be shortened?
- Usually not. During the first two years, targeted removal of damage is generally enough.
- Why not level all the tips?
- They may carry flower buds. Random topping removes potential fruit and does not provide selective renewal.
- How should I renew an old bush?
- Remove a limited share of the oldest thick stems while keeping a range of ages. Spread renewal over several years.