Nutritional requirements of blueberries

Roles of nutrients at key growth stages

Post harvest to New growth or Establishment

Nitrogen - in the ammonium form,, to build reserves in the cane for recycling and subsequent growth of new leaves in the spring

Phosphorus, calcium, boron, and zinc – to maximise strong root development and support new growth

Potassium – for good plant development

Vegetative growth, Leaf expansion

Nitrogen - in the ammonium form, main doses are required at this stage for leaf expansion

Phosphorus - to meet uptake needs through flowering

Potassium – to promote strong leaf growth and build a strong plant development

Sulphur and magnesium - to maintain vigorous, healthy leaf growth and to improve plant supplies

Micronutrients - to ensure photosynthetic growth is not limiting

Flowering to fruit set

Potassium – peak demand for berry development and to build berry quality

Nitrogen - in the ammonium form,  in reduced amounts so as not to compromise fruit stability

Phosphorus - to meet uptake needs through flowering

Magnesium - to support new tissue development and boost fruit integrity, reduce disease and maximise shelf life

Boron - for good pollen production, seed formation and fruit set

Other micronutrients - as needed to maintain growth

Fruiting to maturity

Potassium – to maximise fruit quality, particularly TSS, acidity and taste.

Phosphorus - to up levels being redistributed to the fruit

Nitrogen - in the ammonium form, limited quantities to balance other nutrients - excessive N at this stage can spoil fruit, but too little N reduces fruit size

Boron and Calcium - for fruit strength