How to Protect Blueberry Bushes

Overview

The different varieties of blueberry bush vary in their cold-hardiness. A good rule of thumb as you approach winter is to avoid any activity that will stimulate growth. All blueberry bushes have shallow roots that need protection from extreme winter cold.

Step 1

Withhold fertilizer after June. Resume fertilizing the blueberry bushes in the spring.

Step 2

Cease pruning the blueberry bushes in late fall. Pruning the plants may delay dormancy.

Step 3

Protect the blueberry bush from critters, such as rabbits, that will munch on it if other food is scarce. Construct a chicken wire barrier or netting around the blueberry bush. If the top of the barrier is left open, take into account the normal depth of snow for your area and construct the fence high enough so the rabbits can't scale it.

Step 4

Mow any grass growing between rows of blueberry bushes to remove possible nesting sites for mice.

Step 5

Combine equal parts of sphagnum peat moss and pine bark mulch and spread a 6-inch layer around the base of the blueberry bush. Pile it up the trunk as well. This will help protect the plant's shallow root system.

Step 6

Water the blueberry bush in the afternoon prior to an expected frost. Saturate the the top 4 inches of soil.