Blueberry - Patriot

A prolific early-season blueberry bush that is perfect for those short on space. Enjoying massive yields. Can be grown in a container.

A singular Patriot Blueberry bush can yield 10+ pounds of fruit once mature. The large, firm berries are excellent for fresh eating, baking, canning and freezing. In addition to its fruit, the shrub also offers gorgeous flowers, aesthetic foliage, and a brilliant fall color to make it both practical and ornamental.

Care

The ideal time to plant blueberry bushes is either in early fall or early spring, once the risk of severe frost has passed. The Patriot variety, known for its compact, rounded shape, typically reaches 4 to 5 feet in height and width. When planting, be sure to leave at least 3 feet of space between each bush. Select a location that receives full sunlight and has soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Patriot blueberries thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, so you may need to amend the soil to lower its pH before planting. To keep the plant healthy and well-shaped, perform annual pruning in the winter while the bush is dormant, removing any dead or diseased wood and lightly trimming new growth.

What to expect

Patriot blueberry plants usually start producing small amounts of fruit within the first year or two after planting, with harvests increasing each season. However, they typically don't reach their full fruit-bearing potential until around the fourth year. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant helps retain soil moisture and supports overall plant health.

Growing Patriot Blueberry Bushes in Containers
Due to their relatively compact size, Patriot blueberry bushes are well-suited for container gardening. Every three years, you can move the plant into a slightly larger pot during late summer or early fall. Continue this process until it reaches a final container size of at least 24 inches in diameter, holding approximately 5 gallons of soil.

Watering Patriot Blueberry Bushes
Patriot blueberries require consistent moisture, typically needing water once a week if rainfall is low. In particularly hot or dry conditions, they may need watering two or more times per week. Because their root systems are shallow, they respond best to frequent, light watering rather than deep soaking.

Feeding Patriot Blueberry Bushes
Use a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring, just before new growth begins, and apply again in late spring or early summer, following the product's instructions. Avoid fertilizing late in the season, as it can promote tender new growth that may be damaged by winter cold.