Permanent blueberry bed

[stuParticipant]

By this time next yr I would like my 4 blueberry bushes that are currently in pots growing in a permanent bed. My question is should I dig out out soil to approx 30 cm deep and add ericaceous compost mixed with leaf mould and sand/grit. Or can I can sulfur chips to current soil to lower the pH as my soil is alkaline

[ElizaDParticipant]

Stu,

Did you find an answer to your question? I ask because I am also thinking of planting my 3 blueberries presently in pots even though I am getting good cropping from them. It would just be easier – less watering.

Regards
Eliza

[charlesModerator]

Stu, I don’t know, have never used sulphur.
It depends how alkaline your soil is. On pH 7.7 I simply added 6in ericaeous on top, then blueberry plants faded after two summers.

[stuParticipant]

I think I’m going to dig out 30 cm and put in a plastic weed suppressant then replace with ericaceous compost and mix with rotted leaf mould and pine needles then each yr top up and see how that works

[charlesModerator]

I don’t like the thought of plastic sheeting buried in soil, what about worms and other soil life?

[stuParticipant]

Several layers of thick cardboard just to temporarily stop soils mixing. Then if I yearly top up with ericaceous hopefully that will work

[charlesModerator]

Yes good plan Stu

[NellloParticipant]

Hi,
Can anyone tell me how to make ericaceous compost (rather than buying it in plastic bags..)?
Nell

[KevParticipant]

Bracken makes an acidic compost when it decomposes. If you cut it in summer while it is still green but not soft, it shreds well and rots down quite fast.

[NellloParticipant]

Thank you! We have some bracken in our garden so will definitely use it for the blueberries. I’ve also been told that Monty Don says you can lay partially rotted bracken around the bushes.

[Author]

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