How to Grow Blueberries in Australia (Complete Care & Fertiliser Guide)

Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) are one of the most rewarding yet nutrient-sensitive fruits you can grow in Australia. Known for their sweet-tart flavour and antioxidant-rich berries, they thrive in cooler regions but can also be grown in pots across temperate and subtropical zones with the right care.

Key blueberry growth facts:

Climate → Prefer cool winters and mild summers. In warmer regions, select low-chill varieties.
Soil needs → Require acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5) for nutrient uptake.
Growth habit → Compact shrubs, typically 1–2 metres tall.
Lifespan → Can fruit for decades if properly fertilised and pruned.

Blueberries are heavy feeders compared to other fruit shrubs. Unlike citrus or stone fruit, they struggle if fed with alkaline or general garden fertilisers. This makes a balanced but slightly acidic fertiliser critical for strong growth and reliable harvests.

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Growing & Fertilising Blueberries

To get the best out of your blueberry plants, focus on soil preparation, consistent feeding, and seasonal care.

1. Soil Preparation

Test soil pH before planting → aim for 4.5–5.5.
Mix in peat moss, pine needles, or sulphur to lower pH if needed.
For pots, use a premium potting mix formulated for acid-loving plants.

2. Planting & Position

Choose a sunny location with protection from hot afternoon sun.
Space bushes 1–1.5 metres apart for airflow.
Keep roots shallow → blueberries don’t like heavy, compacted soils.

3. Fertiliser Schedule

Blueberries need consistent feeding through the year:

Early Spring → Apply CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20 (liquid or powder) to boost leaf and shoot growth.
Pre-Flowering (late spring) → Reduce nitrogen slightly, focus on phosphorus and potassium for flowers and fruit set.
Fruiting (summer) → Maintain CompleteGrow 20-20-20 liquid every 2–3 weeks in pots, monthly in ground.
Post-Harvest (autumn) → Light feed to strengthen plants before dormancy.

4. Pruning & Maintenance

Prune in winter → remove old canes, encourage new growth.
Mulch with pine bark or straw to retain moisture and maintain acidity.
Ensure consistent watering, especially during fruit swelling.

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Common Problems & FAQs

Even with proper care, blueberries are prone to fertiliser-related issues.

Common Fertiliser Problems

Yellow Leaves (Chlorosis) → Often iron or nitrogen deficiency due to high pH. Remedy: acidify soil + apply CompleteGrow NPK.
No Fruit → Too much nitrogen can push leafy growth over flowers. Balance with phosphorus and potassium.
Leaf Burn → Overfertilisation; always dilute liquid feed properly.

FAQs

Q: Can I grow blueberries in pots in Australia? Yes, pots are ideal because you can control soil pH and drainage. Use liquid CompleteGrow NPK fertiliser every 2 weeks. Q: What fertiliser is best for blueberries? Blueberries thrive on a balanced but acid-supportive formula like CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20, applied more frequently in pots. Q: Do blueberries need acidic fertiliser? Yes. Blueberries cannot absorb key nutrients unless the soil pH is acidic. Adjust with sulphur and feed with CompleteGrow liquid nutrients.