Question
They sell blueberry bushes at Costco. Can they grow in Utah and if so what kind of soil prep is needed?
Answer(s)
Blueberries are native to areas with acid soil, and that is what they need. Here in Utah, our soil is at the opposite end of the pH spectrum; we have alkaline soil. Not only that, but our soil has a high buffering capacity, so even if you add acid to it, the pH comes back to where it started in a month or two.
If you can't live without blueberries, you should build a raised bed and grow them in soil with a lot of organic matter amendments. Mix in some native soil, too, to provide micronutrients. Fertilize with an acidifying fertilizer.
Blueberries are delicious, but growing them in Utah is a challenge. I would recommend growing some other type of small fruit and buying blueberries from the store.
Good gardening!
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