Best Blueberry Varieties for North Carolina Gardens

Blueberries offer a delightful combination of beauty and bounty, making them a favorite in North Carolina gardens. With the right variety, you can enjoy a delicious harvest while enhancing your garden's appeal. Here’s a guide to selecting the best blueberry varieties for North Carolina gardens.

Blueberry Varieties for North Carolina Gardens

Why Blueberries Thrive in North Carolina

Blueberries flourish in North Carolina due to the state’s diverse climate and acidic soils, which are ideal for blueberry cultivation. From the mountains to the coast, different varieties can be matched to local conditions for optimal growth and yield.

Types of Blueberries: Southern Highbush vs. Rabbiteye

Blueberries generally come in two types that are well-suited for North Carolina: Southern Highbush and Rabbiteye. Each type has unique characteristics that cater to different regions of the state.

Southern Highbush

Southern Highbush blueberries are hybrids of the Northern Highbush and Southern wild blueberries. They are well-suited for the coastal plains and piedmont regions of North Carolina.

Climate Adaptability: These varieties are adapted to warmer climates and mild winters, making them perfect for southern parts of the state.
Soil Preferences: Thrive in well-drained, acidic soils with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5

Popular Varieties:

‘Star’: Known for its large, flavorful berries and early ripening.
‘Jewel’: Offers a heavy yield and is highly resistant to root rot.
‘Emerald’: Produces large, sweet berries and is valued for its high productivity.

Rabbiteye

Rabbiteye blueberries are native to the southeastern United States and are ideal for the inland and mountain areas of North Carolina.

Climate Adaptability: These varieties can withstand more extreme temperatures and are drought-tolerant.