Blueberry, Jersey

Jersey (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Jersey')

One of the oldest and most reliable highbush blueberry varieties, Jersey is loved for its sweet, flavorful berries and adaptability. It produces a heavy crop of small-to-medium berries with a rich, classic blueberry flavor, making it ideal for fresh eating, baking, and preserving. Jersey is a vigorous grower with high yields and performs well even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Key Characteristics:

• Classic Sweet Flavor: Jersey berries are small-to-medium, sweet, and flavorful, perfect for all uses.
• Reliable Yields: Jersey is known for consistently heavy yields, even in challenging growing conditions.

Product Details:

• Mature Height: 5-7 feet
• Fruit Time: Late season (August)
• Fruit Qualities: Small-to-medium, sweet berries with rich flavor
• Chill Hours: 800-1000 hours
• Pollination Partners: Best paired with Bluecrop, Patriot, and Blueray for better yields.
• 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.