9 

Blueberry 'Bluejay'

2-Gallon

Height: 5-7 feet tall.
Spread: 4-6 feet.
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zone: 4a.
Other Names: Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bluejay'

Description:
A vigorous northern highbush blueberry variety known for its high yields, disease resistance, and easy-to-pick berries. 'Bluejay' produces medium-sized, mildly sweet blueberries that ripen in early to mid-summer. The berries resist cracking and stay on the bush longer than many other varieties, making it a great option for extended harvesting. This hardy and adaptable shrub is an excellent choice for home gardens and edible landscapes.

Edible Qualities:
Blueberry 'Bluejay' is valued for its mild, sweet flavor and firm texture. The berries ripen in early to mid-summer and are perfect for fresh eating and processing.

The fruit is most often used in the following ways:
- Fresh Eating
- Baking
- Smoothies
- Preserves
- Freezing

Features & Attributes:
Blueberry 'Bluejay' features vibrant green foliage throughout the growing season, turning brilliant shades of yellow and orange in the fall. In spring, it produces clusters of delicate white, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. Its berries ripen evenly, and the fruit holds well on the bush, reducing the need for frequent harvesting.

This is a deciduous shrub with an upright, spreading growth habit. It is self-pollinating but benefits from being planted near another blueberry variety for increased yields.

Aside from its primary use as an edible, Blueberry 'Bluejay' is suitable for the following landscape applications:
- Edible Hedges
- Home Gardens
- Wildlife Gardens

Planting & Growing:
Blueberry 'Bluejay' will grow to be about 5-7 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 4-6 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 1-2 feet from the ground. It grows at a medium rate and, under ideal conditions, can be expected to live for 30 years or more.

This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, acidic soil. It requires consistent moisture, particularly during fruit development, and benefits from an annual layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Regular pruning helps improve air circulation and fruit production.

Additional Characteristics:
- Early to Mid-Season Ripening
- Self-Pollinating (Improved Yields with Cross-Pollination)
- High-Yielding
- Disease Resistant
- Fall Foliage Interest