Blueberry, Nelson, Bare Root
Large, Rich-Flavored Late-Season Blueberries
Blueberry, Nelson, Bare Root - Bare Root / 18-24" is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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Nelson (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Nelson')
Nelson is a mid-to-late season highbush blueberry variety prized for its very large, firm, and flavorful berries. The fruit is perfect for fresh eating, baking, and freezing, with a sweet-tart flavor that intensifies as it ripens. Nelson is a vigorous grower with an upright, spreading habit, making it an attractive addition to both edible and ornamental gardens. This variety is known for its hardiness and ability to produce high-quality berries in cooler climates.
Key Characteristics:
- Large, Firm Berries: Nelson produces large, sweet-tart berries with excellent flavor, ideal for fresh use and freezing.
- Vigorous Growth: This variety has a robust, upright growth habit, making it a strong, productive plant in the garden.
- Cold Hardy: Nelson performs well in colder regions, making it an excellent choice for northern climates.
Product Details:
- Mature Height: 5-7 feet
- Fruit Time: Late-Mid Season
- Fruit Qualities: Very Large, firm berries with sweet-tart flavor
- Chill Hours: 800-1000 hours
- Pollination Partners: Pairs well with Bluecrop, Jersey, and Elliott.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-7
Blueberries are a valuable addition to fruit tree guilds in permaculture systems. Positioned in the shrub layer, they benefit from the shade and protection of larger trees while providing ground-level diversity. Their flowers attract pollinators, and their roots help with moisture retention, enhancing the overall health and productivity of the guild. Their nutrient-dense berries offer a reliable food source, complementing the fruit production of the larger trees.
Northern highbush blueberries are best suited for cooler climates, thriving in USDA zones 4-7. These plants require well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5) and full sun for optimal fruit production. Blueberries benefit from mulch to retain moisture, prevent weeds, and protect shallow roots. Consistent watering is essential, especially during fruiting. Blueberries are self-fertile but cross-pollination increases the overall yield, improves the size and quality of the berries, and leads to a more abundant harvest. Add organic compost or sulfur to the soil to maintain its acidity. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and more abundant fruiting.
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Sun RequirementsFull Sun
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Soil RequirementsMedium
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Bloom ColorWhite
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Bloom TimeMay, June
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USDA Hardiness ZonesZone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7
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Chill Hours1000
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Pollination Partners