NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

EM 8918
November 2006
$5.00

Nutrient
Management
for Blueberries
in Oregon
J. Hart, B. Strik, L. White, and W. Yang
Contents
Growing condition assumptions.......................................................................................... 1
Tissue testing........................................................................................................................ 2
Interpreting tissue test results............................................................................................... 3
Soil sampling....................................................................................................................... 4
Site preparation.................................................................................................................... 4
Nitrogen............................................................................................................................... 6
Phosphorus........................................................................................................................... 9
Potassium............................................................................................................................. 9
pH and manganese............................................................................................................... 9
Calcium.............................................................................................................................. 10
Magnesium......................................................................................................................... 10
Sulfur................................................................................................................................. 10
Boron................................................................................................................................. 10
Zinc.................................................................................................................................... 11
Copper................................................................................................................................ 11
Iron..................................................................................................................................... 11
For more information......................................................................................................... 12
Management points............................................................................................................ 13
Western Oregon highbush blueberry nutrient management calendar...................back cover

John Hart, Extension soil scientist; Bernadine Strik, Extension berry crops specialist; Linda White, Extension faculty, horticulture, Coos
County; and Wei Yang, Extension faculty, small fruits, North Willamette Research and Extension Center; all of Oregon State ­University.
This publication replaces FG 78, Blueberry Fertilizer Guide.
Nutrient Management for
Blueberries in Oregon
C
ommercial blueberry production in Oregon is domi- Blueberry plants require chemical elements from air,
nated by the northern highbush type, although water, and soil to ensure adequate vegetative growth and
rabbiteye blueberries are produced on limited acre- fruit production. When levels of these nutrients in the
age. This publication addresses nutrient management of plant are inadequate, growth and yield may be affected.
northern highbush blueberries in western Oregon. Where Severely reduced nutrient supply can lead to visible
data are available to support management differences by nutrient deficiency symptoms, such as leaf discoloration
blueberry type, this information is provided. (Figures 1 and 2) and distortion.
The following questions are addressed in this publica-
tion. These questions should be answered before any fertil-
izer is applied.
• How much fertilizer should be applied?
• When should the fertilizer be applied (timing)?
• What source (type) of nitrogen should be applied?
• What method of application should be used?

Growing condition assumptions

In western Oregon, blueberries typically are
planted in Amity, Chehalis, Colquato, Jory, Mala-
bon, Nekia, Willamette, and Woodburn soils. A
typical yield for a well-managed, mature field is
8 to 9 ton/a.
Blueberries usually are planted at 3 ft x 10 ft Figure 1. Chlorosis caused by iron deficiency.
spacing on either raised beds or flat ground.
Douglas-fir sawdust generally is used as a
preplant soil amendment. This guide assumes
that 3.5 inches of sawdust are applied in 3-foot-
wide strips on 10-foot centers and incorporated
10 inches deep before planting. Typically, con-
tainer stock is planted in October, and a 2-inch
surface sawdust mulch is applied.
Recommendations are based on research and
experience with blueberry production in this set-
ting and on research in other areas. Recommenda-
tions in this publication may not produce desired
results in other production areas, especially in
semiarid environments where soil pH is naturally
above 6.0, water contains salts and carbonates,
and warm winter temperatures limit the accumu-
lation of chilling degrees.
Figure 2. Nitrogen deficiency.
 The goal of fertilization for any high-value crop is to Tissue testing can be used for any of the following:
remove limitations to yield and quality by supplying the • Predicting fertilizer needs of annual crops
crop with ample nutrition in advance of demand. Nutrient • Diagnosing problems
application should be based on soil and plant analyses and
grower experience. Consider the return on your fertil- • Evaluating a fertilizer program for perennial crops
izer investment as well as environmental stewardship. A Tissue testing can be used to monitor and adjust fertil-
fertilizer application should be “bio”logically sound; in izer use during early growth stages of annual crops such
other words, it should produce a measurable change in as potatoes, sugar beets, or lettuce. A tissue test can help
plant growth or nutrient status. A fertilizer application is growers anticipate fertilizer needs for these annual crops.
­expected to increase fruit yield or quality, producing a In contrast, tissue test results are not very useful for pre-
return on your investment. dicting current-season fertilizer needs of perennial crops
Results from a nutrient application will vary from field such as blueberries. In part, this limitation is due to the
to field and from year to year. This guide does not address minimal short-term effect of fertilizer on yield in perennial
every circumstance encountered by growers. Growers, crops. In producing blueberries, tissue testing is best used
with the assistance of county Extension faculty and field for end-of-season evaluation of a fertilizer program.
representatives, should annually consider nutrient needs If problems such as poor growth or discoloration of
of each field. Routine analysis of soil and tissue samples shoots or whips appear during the growing season, you can
is helpful in determining fertilizer requirements. Annual use a tissue test to check for nutrient deficiencies. When
tissue testing can detect low nutrient concentration before sampling outside the late July to mid-August time period
visible symptoms or yield reduction occurs. (see “When to sample,” below), you must collect a com-
To assist with interpretation of soil and tissue analyses, panion sample from an unaffected area for comparison.
keep records of weather, disease problems, and nutrient Tissue testing is based on sampling at the proper time,
applications for each field. Observations of annual growth sampling the appropriate plant part, and using “standards”
(whip number, diameter, and shoot length), yield, leaf for comparison. The following sections discuss these
color, and fruit quality (berry set and firmness) are also ­topics.
helpful.
The use of fertilizer should be part of a complete man- When to sample
agement package. Management practices from selection Tissue samples should be collected when nutrient con-
of certified plants to pre- and postharvest irrigation must centration is stable. Samples collected just a few days apart
be performed in an appropriate and timely manner so that during periods of rapidly changing nutrient concentration
plants can benefit from applied nutrients. Nutrient appli- can give quite different results. For example, tissue N con-
cation is not a substitute for poorly timed irrigation, late centration changes rapidly early in the growing season but
harvest, or failure to control insects, diseases, rodents, or slowly after early July (Figure 3).
weeds. Soil properties such as high pH and/or poor drain- For evaluation of blueberry nutrient status, collect leaf
age can be significant limiting factors to obtaining high tissue between late July and mid-August. Samples col-
berry yields. Increasing fertilizer rates or adding nutrients lected between these dates produce consistent analytical
already in adequate supply will not correct these limiting results.
factors.

Tissue testing
By analyzing plant tissue for nutrient content (tis-
sue testing), you can evaluate the adequacy of nutrient
N concentration (%)

levels. Plant tissue analyses indicate which elements are

­accumulated in adequate, deficient, or excessive amounts.
This ­information will help you decide whether fertilizer is
needed and, if so, how much and what kind.
Changes in tissue analyses for some nutrients, such as
nitrogen (N) and boron (B), can occur within a few weeks
of nutrient application. Typically, however, changes in
nutrient concentration in a perennial crop such as blueber- Date
ries require a longer time (sometimes as long as 2 years),
Figure 3. Seasonal change in ‘Bluecrop’ blueberry leaf tissue nitro-
especially when immobile materials (phosphorus and gen concentration. Data are average leaf tissue concentrations from
potassium) are applied to the soil surface. the whole plant.


 Interpreting tissue test
­results
The sections on pages 6–11 discuss tissue
concentrations and fertilizer application rates for
specific nutrients. Compare the results from a
laboratory analysis to the values in Tables 4–8 to
determine whether sufficient nutrients were sup-
plied by the soil and your fertilizer program.
Do not apply fertilizer based solely on lab
­results, however. Also review plant growth and
yield from the previous season. Choose the com-
bination of tissue analysis results and crop growth
listed below that corresponds to your situation.
Keep this information in mind as you use
Tables 4–8.
Figure 4. Collect the most recent fully expanded leaves. Do not take • Low tissue analyses and abundant cane
leaves from whips. growth. A good target is 10 to 12 inches of
shoot growth on 2-year-old canes by the end of
the season. If growth is more luxurious, don’t
How to sample apply additional fertilizer even if tissue nutri-
Collect samples of the most recent fully expanded ent concentrations are low. Lower-than-normal
leaves (Figure 4). Do not take leaves from whips. Collect tissue nutrient concentrations are common when
leaves that are free of disease or other damage if possible. growth is excessive because the tissue nutrient
Pick leaves so that the petiole (stem) remains with the leaf. content is diluted by the intensive growth. This
Sample 5 leaves each from at least 10 plants distributed condition should correct itself when growth
randomly throughout the field. A single sample should not ­returns to normal. This situation usually is
represent more than 10 acres. caused by oversupply of N; therefore, do not
Do not mix cultivars in a tissue sample, as mixed sam- ­apply extra fertilizer, especially N. Below-
ples have more variability. For example, cultivars might ­normal N and high vigor also can occur on
have different fruiting seasons and times of growth flushes; shoots with little or no crop. Note that rabbiteye
thus, they might differ in leaf nutrient concentration at any types are more vigorous than highbush types
given time. and consequently require much less N than
If the purpose of leaf sampling is to diagnose a sus- highbush types.
pected problem, collect one sample from affected plants • Low tissue analyses and weak growth. If
and another from apparently healthy plants. shoots or overall growth are weak, discolored,
Do not wash samples. Put leaves in a paper (not plastic) or stunted, and tissue nutrient concentrations are
bag. Air dry them or send them to a laboratory immedi- low, apply fertilizer at rates recommended in
ately. To avoid spoilage, ship fresh (moist) samples early this publication.
in the week to ensure delivery before the weekend.
A list of laboratories performing tissue analyses is found • Normal tissue analyses and growth. If tissue
in Laboratories Serving Oregon: Soil, Water, Plant Tissue, analyses and growth are within the normal
and Feed Analysis (EM 8677). range, continue with your current fertilizer
­program.
• Above-normal tissue analyses and weak
Frequency of sampling growth. If shoots are weak, discolored, or
Annual sampling from all fields is recommended so
stunted, and tissue analyses are above normal,
that trends can be observed. This will allow adjustments in
look for stress from pests, drainage, drought,
fertilizer application before a nutrient deficiency or excess
frost, overcropping (not pruning hard enough),
occurs.
or other factors limiting growth.
• Above-normal tissue analyses and growth. If
Other considerations tissue analyses are above normal and growth is
Tissue analysis results outside the normal range cannot adequate or above normal, reduce the amount of
always be attributed to the fertilizer program. Insufficient fertilizer you apply, especially N.
mineral nutrient concentration can be caused by unfavor-
able soil pH; saturated or dry soils; high temperatures;


frost; shade; weed, insect, or disease pressure; herbicide
injury; or overcropping. Insufficient pruning, resulting in Site preparation
a yield too high for the bush to support, will reduce over- Planting blueberries is an investment that can cost
all bush vigor and root, shoot, and whip growth, and will more than $10,000 per acre (Blueberry Economics,
result in tissue concentrations outside the normal range. EM 8526-E). A suitable site is necessary for growth,
Several fungicides contain plant nutrients. Because optimum production, and prompt recovery of the initial
tissue samples are not washed before analysis, high levels investment. Such a site has air and water drainage, good-
of copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), or zinc (Zn) might be quality irrigation water, and ­adequate soil pH. Additional
the result of fungicide residue. High B and Zn also might information is available in Proceedings for the 2004
­occur after liquid or foliar fertilizer application. Blueberry Production Course and in Highbush Blueberry
Production (PNW 215).

Soil sampling Acidifying soil

In contrast to use of annual tissue analyses to assess High soil pH is one of the primary problems encoun-
the adequacy of a fertilizer program, soil analysis is most tered with new blueberry fields. When blueberry plants
useful before planting to determine what adjustments are are grown in high-pH soil, the leaves, especially new
needed. For example, soil pH might be too high for opti- growth, are yellow with green veins or completely yel-
mum blueberry production. low. These leaves are small and often turn brown and fall
Obtain soil samples at least a year before planting so from the plant before the end of the season. Little growth
soil pH can be adjusted if necessary (see “Site prepara- ­occurs, and some plants may die (Figures 6 and 7).
tion”). Applications of elements such as K and magne-
sium (Mg) also are more accessible to plant roots when
mixed with the soil rather than broadcast over the surface
after planting.
After planting, soil analyses can be helpful in diagnos-
ing problems, such as high soil pH or excessive salts.
Obtain samples from the area between the dripline and the
crown.
Fertilizer is commonly applied in a wide band centered
on the blueberry rows. This application method con-
centrates nutrients, complicating soil sampling after site
establishment. For example, banding of N can decrease
soil pH in the row more than between rows (Figure 5).
In this example, the surface soil pH also was lower than
the subsurface soil pH. A similar pattern can be found for
nutrients such as K when fertilizer is placed in a band on
the soil surface.
Additional information is found in Soil Sampling for
Home Gardens and Small Acreages (EC 628) and Moni-
toring Soil Nutrients Using a Management Unit Approach
(PNW 570-E). Figure 6. Rabbiteye blueberry plant killed by high soil pH.

Figure 5. Soil pH differences from samples taken between rows

and under the drip line. The figure also shows differences in soil pH
with depth. Figure 7. Highbush blueberry plant severely stunted by high
soil pH.


 Plants stunted by high soil pH usually do not recover Timing of acidification
even when soil pH is reduced. Blueberries established in If pH needs to be reduced by more than 0.2 unit,
high-pH fields often require replanting to obtain a vigor- begin the acidification process a year before planting.
ous, uniform stand. Acidification using elemental S relies on microorganisms
The soil pH recommended for highbush blueberry for conversion of S to sulfate. This process requires warm,
production is 4.5 to 5.5; for rabbiteye blueberries it is 4.2 moist conditions. Even an early fall application does not
to 5.0. Use the upper limit of soil pH as your target when provide sufficient time or soil warmth for the elemental S
planting, as soil pH will decline over time with applica- to completely react by the following spring (Figure 8).
tion of N fertilizer. Plant highbush types in fields with soil Data for Figure 8 were collected from a silty clay or
pH about 5.5 and rabbiteye blueberries at pH 5.0. silty clay loam soil in the Willamette Valley (Table 1).
Measure soil pH well in advance of final site selection A single 3,500 lb/a elemental S application incorporated
and planting. If soil pH is too high, acidify the soil a year in September did not decrease soil pH for 6 months. The
before planting. Adjusting soil pH after planting is expen- initial decrease was slight, 0.2 to 0.3 pH unit. When the
sive, difficult, inefficient, and sometimes impossible. soil warmed in the summer, soil pH declined from 5.3 to
Preplant acidification usually is achieved by applying 4.8 in approximately 4 months. The acidification reaction
and incorporating elemental sulfur (S). Elemental S can seemed to be complete a year after application, as soil
be supplied by a single application or by several smaller pH decreased only 0.1 unit during the second winter after
applications. Neither approach is superior. Splitting the application.
­elemental S application is a cautious approach compared Figure 9 illustrates soil pH change from two elemental
to a more aggressive single application. Use finely ground S applications, 3 months apart. Elemental S was initially
S for acidification. Incorporation of elemental S is neces- applied in late June 2003 (Table 1). Three months later,
sary for acidification to occur in a timely manner. soil pH had declined 0.5 pH unit, and the reaction was
Acidification is a new management practice for complete. A second application of elemental S was incor-
western Oregon. See Acidifying Soil for Crop Production porated in October 2003. From October to March, soil
West of the Cascade Mountains (EM 8857-E) for more pH declined only slightly. A sharp decline was measured
­information.
Soil pH

Soil pH

Date Date
Figure 8. Soil pH change from a single incorporated elemental S Figure 9. Soil pH change from two incorporated elemental S appli-
­application. Table 1 provides site and application details. cations. Table 1 provides site and application information.

Table 1.—Soil information and elemental S rate for sites represented in Figures 8 and 9.
Figure 8 Figure 9
Soil series Not available Malabon
Clay %* 38.8 25
Soil textural class Clay loam/clay Loam/clay loam
Cation exchange capacity 34 meq/100 g soil 21 meq/100 g soil
Initial soil pH 5.6 6.5
Initial S application date September 20, 2003 June 25, 2003
Initial S application rate 3,000 to 3,500 lb/a 600 lb of 0-0-0-95/a
Second S application date None October 3, 2003
Second S application rate None 600 lb of 0-0-0-95/a
Table in Acidifying Soil for Crop Production
West of the Cascade Mountains used to estimate S rate Table 7 Table 5
*Determined by hydrometer method.


after the summer of 2004. The reaction resulting from the
second application was similar to that resulting from the
fall application shown in Figure 8.
Before you plant!
The data in Figures 8 and 9 highlight the need to Before making the investment to establish a
acidify soil a year before planting. Be patient after a fall blueberry planting, be sure to:
application, as the acidification process will begin slowly. • Measure soil pH.
Soil pH likely will decline only a few tenths of a unit until
soils warm. In contrast, soil pH declines rapidly in the 3 to • Allow sufficient time, possibly a year, for
4 months following a summer application. ­acidification.
The sites in Figures 8 and 9 were not irrigated. Winter • Proceed cautiously with elemental S
and spring rainfall usually provides enough moisture for ­application.
the acidification reaction. • Monitor or measure soil pH several times
No “best” time exists for application of elemental S; ­before planting.
choose a time that fits your situation. In western Oregon,
the soil usually is dry in the fall, making tillage and
incorporation of S easier. Delaying S application until
spring risks wet conditions for incorporation, but should Sawdust
not disrupt planting a year after incorporation if the soil is Incorporation of Douglas-fir sawdust or compost prior
kept moist throughout the summer. to planting is a common industry practice. Recent ­research
If initial soil pH is only 0.1 or 0.2 unit above the has shown that sawdust incorporated prior to planting may
desired range, acidification and planting can be within not improve plant growth in a good, well-drained sandy
a few months of each other. One option is to incorpo- loam, loam, or silt loam. However, incorporation of an
rate ­elemental S in the fall and plant in the spring, 4 to organic material such as sawdust can offer advantages in
6 months after S application. heavier soil.
If the soil pH is below 6.0 and container stock is To use sawdust preplant, apply 3.5 inches of sawdust
planted, another option is to plant a few days after a in 3-foot-wide strips on 10-foot centers (19 units/acre).
spring or fall application of elemental S. If elemental S Add 5 lb N/unit of sawdust (95 lb N/acre) and incorporate
is incorporated shortly before planting, it will react after to a depth of 10 inches. Sawdust contains little N. Soil
establishment. microbes require N for sawdust decomposition, and they
Soil also can be acidified after establishment by adding are more efficient at using soil N than are plants. Fertilizer
an acid through the drip irrigation system. The resulting N must be added so that normal microbial decomposition
reduction in soil pH usually is 0.2 to 0.3 unit. can occur without taking N from newly planted blueber-
ries. Incorporated sawdust immobilizes more N than does
How much elemental S to apply sawdust applied to the surface.
Soil differs dramatically in the S rate needed for acidi- Use of cedar, oak, walnut, or any other sawdust often
fication. The two soils in Figures 8 and 9 are excellent is associated with chlorotic (yellow) leaves and poor
examples. Even though the initial soil pH in Figure 8 was growth. In addition, growers have lost a year or more of
1 unit lower than that of the soil in Figure 9, it required blueberry plant growth by incorporating horse bedding
three times the amount of elemental S. Not only were the prior to planting; some horse bedding contains added lime
S rates markedly different, so was the amount of acidi- and has a pH over 6.5. This material is not recommended
fication. The higher S rate applied to the soil in Figure 8 for use in blueberry production.
reduced soil pH 1 unit, while the lower rate in Figure 9 The pH of Douglas-fir sawdust is about 5.5. Before
reduced soil pH 1.5 unit. ­using other organic material, test its pH.
Elemental S rates vary for each field. The tables in
Acidifying Soil for Crop Production West of the Cascade
Mountains should be used only to estimate S rate. The
Nitrogen (N)
tables are based on soil buffering capacity, or how easily N source
soil pH can be changed. The primary agent buffering soil Blueberry plants use ammonium-N (NH4). Fertilizers
is cation exchange capacity (CEC). Soil analysis for CEC that contain only nitrate (NO3), such as calcium nitrate,
is a better guide than soil series for selecting the S rate may cause injury or reduced growth and should be
table. Experience with your soil and situation is necessary avoided. Ammonium nitrate is no longer sold as a fertil-
to select an elemental S rate that will achieve your pH izer material because it can be used to make explosives.
target. Calcium ammonium nitrate is a replacement product.
If the soil pH is below 5, do not use only ammonium
sulfate (urea-sul) or ammonium phosphate-sulfate
(16-20-0-15), as these materials may reduce pH too
much. Use urea or a blend of urea with a small amount of
­ammonium sulfate.


 Controlled-release fertilizers may be used provided Time of application
the N source and the release rate are appropriate for plant Young and mature plants take up fertilizer N at the
needs. Note, however, that a single application of a more same time of year. Very little fertilizer (less than 2 per-
expensive product may not be more economical than cent) is taken up before the end of April. N should be
multiple applications of a less expensive product. ­Oregon “split,” with 0.2 oz (0.4 oz urea) applied in April, May,
State University has not tested controlled-release N and June.
sources in producing blueberries. Controlled-release fertilizers may be used, provided
Common N fertilizers are listed in Table 2. the N source and the release rate are appropriate for
plant needs. Note, however, that a single application of
Establishment (years 1 and 2) a more expensive product may not be more economical
Note: Year 1 is considered the first growing season, than multiple applications of a less expensive product.
regardless of October or spring planting. In ­experiments with a second-year planting, controlled-
Prune any flower buds present on nursery plants to release fertilizer provided no measurable advantage
prevent fruiting the first year. Pruning to prevent cropping compared to ammonium sulfate. The only advantage was
in year 2 also is recommended in most situations. Allow labor savings from a single application rather than several
only plants with sufficient vigor to produce a light crop in applications.
the second year. Early cropping (fruiting in years 1 and 2)
has been shown to reduce root growth and yield in years Application method
3 and 4. When plants are young and the canopy does not fill the
Nitrogen application may not increase growth the first row, we recommend applying fertilizer by hand. Spread
year. Most blueberry nursery stock contains sufficient N the recommended rate in an area under the drip line of the
for the first year’s growth. Recent research showed no bush (Figure 10). Apply fertilizer evenly.
­increase in whip length or plant dry weight from N appli- Use caution when applying N to young blueberries, as
cation in the planting year. Even so, a small N application overapplication will cause leaf burn, and severe over-
is prudent to protect the substantial investment involved ­application will cause plant death. Young plants are much
in establishing blueberries. more sensitive to under- and overfertilization because they
We recommend applying 0.6 oz N per plant in do not have a lot of stored N reserves and because the
year 1 and 0.7 oz N per plant in year 2. These rates young root system is very sensitive to fertilizer “burn.”
­assume that sawdust and 95 lb N/a were incorporated
prior to planting and that 2 inches of surface mulch are
used.
These rates are per plant. Because the root system may
not yet have covered the entire in-row area, per-acre rates
depend on plant spacing. Per-plant rates can be converted
to per-acre rates as follows:
(oz/plant x plants/acre) ÷ 16 = lb N/acre
Remember to convert the N rate to the amount of product
needed per acre (e.g., 100 lb N/a of ammonium sulfate
[21-0-0] would be 100 ÷ 0.21 = 475 lb product/a).
Rabbiteye blueberries need much less N than do high-
bush blueberries and will have poor growth and yield with
overfertilization. Grower experience has indicated that N
rates can be reduced by up to half for rabbiteye blueber-
ries with good results. Figure 10. Application of N fertilizer for nonbearing blue-
berries or bearing plants without canopy closure.

Table 2.—Common nitrogen sources, chemical formula, and analysis.

Fertilizer material Chemical formula Analysis or grade
Ammonium sulfate (NH4)2SO4 21-0-0
Ammonium phosphate NH4H2PO4 11-5-20
Ammonium phosphate-sulfate NH4H2PO4 (NH4)2SO4 16-20-0-15
Calcium ammonium nitrate CaCO3 + NH4NO3 27-0-0
Calcium nitrate* Ca(NO3)2 15.5-0-0
Urea CO(NH2)2 46-0-0
Urea-sul CO(NH2)2 + (NH4)2SO4 37 to 46% N + 4 to 8% S
Urea ammonium nitrate solution CO(NH2)2 + NH4NO4 28 to 32% N
*Not recommended for blueberries.


Applying all of the N fertilizer in a concentrated area near
the crown can cause plant death. Table 4.—Blueberry leaf N sufficiency, late July to mid-
If fertilization must be done by machine, you will need ­August sampling.
to increase the rate because plants cannot take up fertilizer Leaf N
that is applied beyond the rooting area. You must calculate (%) Status
how much of the application is within the drip line of the
bush and how much is “wasted” and adjust the application below 1.50 Deficient
rate accordingly. 1.50–1.75 Below normal
1.76–2.00 Normal
2.01–2.50 Above normal
Producing plants (starting in year 3) above 2.50 Excess
Adequate tissue N levels are necessary for renewal
growth, crop production, and flower bud development Soil testing for N is not a reliable indicator of peren-
for next year’s crop. Excess N early in the season may nial crop N status. Leaf analysis alone (Table 4) does not
reduce fruit quality, increase risk of disease on fruit, and indicate whether N fertilization is required, but it can be
delay maturation. Excess N late in the season leads to used in conjunction with an assessment of plant growth
excessive vegetative growth, a late flush of growth (which and productivity to determine N status (see “Interpreting
increases risk of winter injury), and reduced flower bud tissue test results,” page 3).
­development. Keep in mind that as sawdust ages and decomposes,
In general, fertilizer rates should increase as the plant- it will release some N that is available to the plants. We
ing ages (Table 3). Rates for years 3 and 4 are per-plant, do not know how quickly this process occurs. Thus, keep
as the root system may not yet cover the entire ­­in-row monitoring plant growth and N tissue concentrations.
area; thus, per-acre rates would depend on plant spacing. Before using any other organic material, test its pH.
Once plants “fill the row,” or their canopies touch, per- The N rates in this publication take into account
acre rates no longer are affected by plant ­spacing. “efficiency” of uptake. Plants cannot take up all of the
fertilizer applied, regardless of the product or method of
application. Efficiency of uptake is affected by plant age
Table 3.—Blueberry N fertilizer rate (year 3 to maturity). (depth and width of root zone), coverage of the in-row
N N area (uptake efficiency increases as plants fill the row),
Year (oz/plant) (lb/a)* method of application (granular, liquid, or foliar applica-
tions), and the amount and timing of application.
3 0.8 — Rabbiteye blueberries need much less N than do high-
4 0.9 —
bush blueberries and will have poor growth and yield with
5 — 100
6 — 125 overfertilization. Grower experience has indicated that N
7 — 145 rates can be reduced by up to half for rabbiteye blueber-
8+ — 165 ries with good results.

The per-plant rates in Table 3 can be converted to per- Time of application

acre rates as follows: Young and mature plants take up fertilizer N at the
(oz/plant x plants/acre) ÷ 16 = lb N/acre same time of year. Very little fertilizer (less than 2 per-
Remember to convert the N rate to the amount of product cent) is taken up before the end of April and less than
needed per acre (e.g., 100 lb N/a of ammonium sulfate 10 percent after mid-July. The blueberry plant relies on
[21-0-0] would be 100 ÷ 0.21 = 475 lb product/acre). stored N reserves early in the season. A relatively clear
The rates in Table 3 assume that sawdust and 95 lb N/a “application window” for efficient N fertilizer uptake
were incorporated prior to planting. These rates are for ­exists between late April and mid-June.
fields with a surface Douglas-fir sawdust mulch (typical The total N fertilizer rate should be split into thirds,
carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of 800:1) replenished every few with the first application in late April, the second in mid-
years. Blueberries topdressed with other kinds of mulch May, and the third in mid-June. Blueberries are shal-
with a higher C:N ratio, or to a greater depth, may need low rooted and inefficient at using fertilizer N. Multiple
more fertilizer N. For example, if you apply an additional applications provide the N fertilizer when plants need it
11 units of sawdust (2 inches deep in 3-foot-wide bands and allow plants more time to absorb N before it is moved
on ­10-foot centers), you will need to add 25 lb N/a to below the root zone.
compensate for N immobilized by the fresh sawdust. In
contrast, reduce the N fertilizer rate if no surface organic Application method
mulch is used. When plants are young and the canopy does not fill the
Once the planting reaches maturity (year 7 or 8), apply row, we recommend fertilization by hand. Spread the rec-
145 to 165 lb N/a. However, adjust N rates, if neces- ommended rate in an area under the drip line of the bush.
sary, based on observations of growth, tissue N analysis If fertilization must be done by machine, increase the rate,
(Table 4), and the amount and type of ­mulching. as any fertilizer not above the roots will be unavailable


to the plants. Once the canopy is full and plants “touch,” Apply P in late fall or spring prior to budbreak. When
fertilizer uptake efficiency is much greater. N is included with P and K, apply in spring. Irrigate after
The least expensive method of fertilizer application is application if rain does not fall within 1 or 2 days.
to apply a granular product as a broadcast band in the row. Various fertilizers can be used: triple superphosphate
Recommended per-acre rates in this publication are based (0-45-0), ammonium phosphate (11-52-0), or ammonium
on this method of application. phosphate sulfate (16-20-0-15).
Little lateral nutrient movement occurs within the plant.
Thus, fertilizer (whether applied as a granular material or
via drip irrigation) should be as evenly distributed under Potassium (K)
the plant canopy as possible to ensure even growth. Any Potassium deficiency is relatively rare in Oregon.
N fertilizer application should be followed by rain or Leaves of K-deficient plants may develop several symp-
­irrigation as soon as possible. toms, including scorching along the margin, cupping,
Foliar application is an inefficient method of applying curling, and necrotic spots. Low leaf K values may be
N fertilizer to blueberry plants. No more than 5 percent caused by poor drainage, drought, or very acid soils.
urea (in water), the equivalent of about 14 lb N/a, can be Yield also has a strong influence on leaf K levels. Po-
applied to plants without burning leaves. However, not tassium concentration in the berry increases dramatically
all of this N is taken up by plants. In research with other as fruit matures, averaging more than 60 mg per berry
crops, no more than 50 percent (or 7 lb N/a) of foliar- when ripe. Thus, deficiency levels in leaves may occur
applied N was taken up. Because of their waxy cuticle, in a heavy yield year, with normal levels returning after
blueberry leaves are not very effective at taking up N. harvest.
Most foliar-applied N that is taken up by plants is taken Normal August leaf K levels are 0.41 to 0.70 percent.
up through the roots (runoff). Blueberry yields have been shown to increase with K
fertilization on various soil types if K is deficient. If a
Phosphorus (P) below-normal leaf value occurs, band trial applications of
150 lb/a potassium sulfate (0-0-52) [K2SO4]. Use Table 6
Symptoms of P deficiency—stunted plants with dark, as a guide, keeping in mind that application rates for
purplish-green, small leaves—rarely are seen in Oregon. established plantings should be based on tissue concentra-
Pears planted in Parkdale soil in the Hood River area are tion. Use these rates regardless of plant density.
the only documented case of P deficiency in deciduous
fruit in western Oregon. Leaves sometimes have a purple
color in early spring when temperatures are cool and soils Table 6.—K fertilization rates based on soil and late July to
are wet—a sign of temporary P deficiency. This condition mid-August tissue sampling.
will be corrected when soils warm. Effects from excessive
P also are rare. Apply this amount
P application might be justified if tissue P and soil P Soil test K Tissue K of K2O
levels are low. Soil test P alone is a poor indicator of P (ppm) (%) (lb/a)
sufficiency for blueberries. 0–100 below 0.20 75–100
No universal tissue concentration is used to define 101–150 0.21–0.40 0–75
blueberry P deficiency. Michigan Extension publications above 150 above 0.40 0
define P deficiency as below 0.07 percent P, Massachu-
setts below 0.05 percent, and Wisconsin and Minnesota Avoid muriate of potash (potassium chloride), because
below 0.08 percent. Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Wis- chloride may cause reduced growth or injury to blue-
consin, and Minnesota define optimum P as above 0.1 per- berries. If both K and Mg are needed, use 400 lb/a sulfate
cent, the value used in this publication. of potash-magnesia (0-0-21, 11% S, 10% Mg) [K2SO4,
Apply P according to Table 5, based on tissue concen- MgSO4]. Excess K can interfere with uptake of other ele-
tration. These rates are appropriate for any plant spac- ments, especially Mg. Therefore, do not apply K unless
ing. Keep in mind that P is not mobile in the soil; thus, foliar analysis indicates a deficiency.
changes in tissue P occur a year or two after application. Apply K in late fall or in spring prior to budbreak.
When N is included with P and K, apply in spring. Irrigate
afterward if rain does not fall within 1 or 2 days.
Table 5.­—P fertilization rates based on soil and late July to
Potassium is immobile in soil. Thus, changes in blue-
mid-August tissue sampling.
berry tissue K occur a year or two after application.
Apply this amount
oil test P (Bray) Leaf P
S
(ppm) (%)
of P2O5
(lb/a) pH and manganese (Mn)
The critical soil pH range for blueberries is 4.5–5.5.
0–25 below 0.07 40–60
If the soil pH is above this range, use elemental sulfur to
26–50 0.08–0.10 0–40
above 50 above 0.10 0 reduce soil pH before planting. (See “Site preparation,”
page 4, and Acidifying Soil for Crop Production West of
the Cascade Mountains). Soil pH will begin to decrease


within 4 to 5 months if soil moisture and temperature
are adequate for growth. Before and after planting,
Magnesium (Mg)
Normal leaf Mg levels are between 0.13 and 0.25 per-
sample again to determine whether further acidification is
cent. Excessive leaf Mg may indicate high soil pH.
­necessary.
If Mg is needed and the pH is above 5.0, apply magne-
Keep in mind that use of ammonium sulfate fertilizer
sium sulfate (Epsom salts) or SulPoMag (21% K, 11% S,
as a source of N will lower soil pH. If soil pH declines
10% Mg) at 500 lb/a. If the pH is below 4.0 and Mg is
in the surface 6 inches or top foot of soil, increasing pH
required, apply 1 ton dolomite lime/a. Apply these materi-
is extremely difficult and often impossible since lime is
als in the fall.
not mobile in soil. Thus, application of a small amount of
The addition of Mg to the regular fertilizer program
lime when soil pH drops below 5.0 is prudent. To main-
will help maintain Mg levels in the soil. Soil testing every
tain soil pH above 4.5, apply 200 to 300 lb lime/a annu-
3 to 5 years allows monitoring of changes in soil Ca and
ally in the fall. If the soil pH is below 4.0, apply 1 to 2 ton
Mg levels.
lime/a. Sample and test soil pH in the surface 3 inches of
soil 8 months after lime application. Do not apply lime in
spring before N fertilizer is used. Sulfur (S)
Foliar manganese concentration normally is ­between Sulfur is an essential element. However, it is more
30 and 350 ppm. Tissue Mn increases as soil pH commonly applied to blueberries to reduce soil pH than
­decreases; thus, tissue Mn can serve as a guide to soil pH to correct a nutrient deficiency. Normal leaf levels for S
changes. Blueberry tissue Mn above 450 ppm is con- range from 0.11 to 0.16 percent.
sidered ­excessive and an indictor of decreasing soil pH
and the need for lime application. Blueberry plants grow
normally with Mn concentration as high as 650 ppm. Boron (B)
Vaccinium plants (blueberries and relatives) are thought to Boron deficiency, which is relatively common in
have a mechanism for Mn tolerance, since Mn levels can Oregon, causes tip dieback. Leaves close to aborted shoot
be as high as 4,000 ppm in lowbush blueberries without tips develop a mottled chlorosis and cupped shape. Leaf
affecting plant growth. Even so, sustained tissue Mn con- and fruit buds fail to develop in severely deficient plants.
centration of 500 ppm or above is not recommended. Winter injury also may be greater on B-deficient plants.
In addition to low soil pH, fungicide and foliar micro- Use Table 7 as a guide to fertilization. If B is deficient,
nutrient application can cause high (above 450 ppm) tis- apply either Solubor (20% B) at 2 to 6 lb product/l00 gal
sue Mn results. These materials are “coatings” on leaves water/a, or 10 to 20 lb/a borax (11% B).
and not a measure of Mn in leaf tissue. Before beginning a
liming program based on high tissue Mn, confirm that no
foliar Mn application has been made and check soil pH. Table 7.—Blueberry leaf B sufficiency, late July to mid-
When soil sampling an established blueberry plant- ­August sampling.
ing, keep in mind that soil pH differences will occur Leaf B
throughout the field. Close to the plants, where N fertil- (ppm) Status
izers are applied, the pH will be lower than between rows
below 20 Deficient
(­Figure 5, page 4).
21–30 Below normal
31–80 Normal
Calcium (Ca)

81–150
above 150
Above normal
Excess
Normal blueberry tissue Ca concentration is from 0.41
to 0.8 percent. Although blueberries seldom are deficient
in Ca, variations in leaf Ca occur. High leaf Ca concentra- Apply Solubor or an equivalent material as a foliar
tion might indicate high soil Ca or a high crop load. Low spray before bloom or after harvest and before leaf senes-
leaf Ca concentration can be present in heavily fertilized, cence. Apply borax in the fall or early spring prior to rain.
vigorously growing plants, or it might be a result of low Many blueberry growers in Oregon follow an annual
soil pH. If low soil pH is suspected, check the tissue Mn B application program of 0.5 lb B/a. Monitor leaf B levels
concentration. Abnormally high Mn (above 450 ppm) is carefully. Excess B is toxic to plants.
an indication of low soil pH and low soil Ca.
If Ca is required and pH is below 4.0, topdress 0.5 to
1 ton/a agricultural limestone (Ca). If Mg is needed as
well, substitute dolomitic limestone (Ca + Mg). If Ca is
needed and the pH is above 5.0, apply 0.5 to 1 ton gyp-
sum/a. Apply these materials in the fall to permit time for
reaction with soil before the growing season.

10
 Copper (Cu)
Do foliar applications work? Copper deficiency is rare in Oregon blueberries. Symp-
toms of Cu deficiency include yellowing between veins of
Foliar applications are sometimes an ­effective young leaves and, in severe cases, young shoot dieback.
way to correct micronutrient deficiencies. How- Cu deficiency may be more severe on soils with more than
ever, foliar applications are expensive and usually 25 percent organic matter.
must be repeated several times to be effective for Normal leaf levels for Cu are from 5 to 15 ppm. If tis-
an entire season. sue concentration is below 3 ppm, use a trial application
Foliar applications are not an effective way to of copper sulfate (25% Cu). Broadcast at 30 to 50 lb/a or
apply nitrogen. apply 1 lb/100 gal water/a as a foliar spray anytime leaves
are present. Cu is very toxic at an excessive rate, so use
caution and experiment on a few plants before applying to
the entire field.

Zinc (Zn) Iron (Fe)

Zn deficiencies are less common than B deficiencies
in Oregon. Symptoms of Zn deficiency include short Iron deficiency in leaves often is the result of high soil
internodes and small leaves. The youngest leaves are pH rather than Fe deficiency in the soil. Symptoms of Fe
somewhat yellow and folded upward along the midrib. deficiency include yellowing between leaf veins, appear-
Excessive use of P sometimes results in Zn deficiency ing first on the younger leaves. Shoot growth and leaf size
symptoms. Zn deficiency is less common when pH is sometimes are reduced.
below 6.0. Normal Fe leaf values are 61 to 200 ppm. If leaf levels
Normal leaf concentrations are from 8 to 30 ppm. If are deficient, apply iron chelate (10% Fe) at 2 lb/100 gal
plants are deficient, apply one of the following: water/a twice as a foliar spray when leaves are present
(see label) or 15 to 30 lb/a to the soil. A soil application of
• Zn chelate (14% Zn) as a foliar spray at 1 lb/100 gal
10 to 20 lb/a ferrous sulfate (34% Fe) also is suitable.
water/a after harvest
• 10 to 30 lb/a Zn chelate or 10 to 30 lb/a Zn sulfate
(36% Zn) to the soil

11
For more information Ballinger, W.E. and L.J. Kushman. 1966. Factors affect-
ing the mineral element content of leaves and fruit
of Wolcott blueberries. Proc. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci.
OSU Extension publications 88:325–330.
Acidifying Soil for Crop Production West of the Cas- Bañados, M.P. 2006. Dry Weight and 15N-nitrogen Par-
cade Mountains (Western Oregon and Washington), titioning, Growth, and Development of Young and
EM 8857-E, by D. Horneck, J. Hart, R. Stevens, Mature Blueberry Plants. Oregon State University
S. Petrie, and J. Altland (2004). Department of Horticulture, Ph.D. dissertation.
Blueberry Economics: The Costs of Establishing and Eck, P. 1988. Blueberry Science. Rutgers University
Producing Blueberries in the Willamette Valley, Press. 284 pp.
EM ­8526-E, by B. Eleveld, B. Strik, K. DeVries, and Gough, R.E. 1984. Split root fertilizer application to high-
W. Yang (2005). bush blueberry plants. HortScience 19:415–416.
Fertilizer and Lime Materials, FG 52, by J. Hart (1992). Harmer, P.M. 1944. Soil reaction and growth of blueberry.
Highbush Blueberry Production, PNW 215, by B. Strik Soil Sci. 9:133–144.
et al. (1993). Martin, L.W. and P.J. Pelofske. 1983. Ammonium sulfate
Laboratories Serving Oregon: Soil, Water, Plant Tissue, fertilization of blueberries on a mineral soil. Commun.
and Feed Analysis, EM 8677, by J. Hart (2006). in Soil. Sci. Plant Anal. 14:131–142.
Monitoring Soil Nutrients Using a Management Unit Proceedings for the 2004 Blueberry Production Course,
­Approach, PNW 570-E, by M. Staben, J. Ellsworth, Salem, OR. Oregon State University Department of
D. Sullivan, D. Horneck, B. Brown, and R. Stevens Horticulture.
(2003). Retamales, J.B. and E.J. Hanson. 1989. Fate of
Soil Sampling for Home Gardens and Small Acreages, 15
N-labeled urea applied to mature highbush blueber-
EC 628, by M. Robotham and J. Hart (2003). ries. J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. 114:920–923.
Visit the OSU Extension Service website to download or White, L. 2006. The Effect of Pre-plant Incorporation
order publications: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/ with Sawdust, Sawdust Mulch, and Nitrogen Fertil-
catalog/ izer Rate on Soil Properties and Nitrogen Uptake and
Growth of ‘Elliott’ Highbush Blueberry. Oregon State
Other publications University Department of Horticulture, M.S. thesis.
Ballinger, W.E. 1966. Seasonal Trends in Wolcott Blue- Woodbridge, C.G. and R.H. Drew. 1960. A boron
berry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) Leaf and Berry ­deficiency die-back in highbush blueberry. Plant Dis-
Composition. North Carolina Agricultural Experiment ease Reporter 4A:855–857.
Station Technical Bulletin 173.

12
Management points
• Maintain soil pH between 4.5 and 5.5 to • Apply granular nitrogen fertilizers in a triple
maximize highbush blueberry production. split in spring/early summer (one-third per
• Blueberry plants prefer the ammonium application).
(NH4) form of nitrogen to nitrate (NO4). • Do not apply nitrogen fertilizer of any kind
— Use ammonium sulfate and urea after harvest.
­fertilizers. • Monitor soil pH regularly.
— Do not use ammonium nitrate fertilizer • If pH needs to be reduced after planting
or calcium nitrate fertilizer. High rates of and use of ammonium sulfate fertilizer will
nitrate will burn plants and be “wasted.” not reduce it fast enough, use elemental
• Do not use fertilizer blends containing sulfur. Do not use more than 200 to 300 lb
ammonium sulfate if the soil pH is below ­elemental S/a per application on established
5.0. Use urea or blends of urea with a small plantings to avoid harming plants.
amount of ammonium sulfate (urea-sul) to • If pH is too low, apply lime in the fall. Do
minimize changes in pH. not apply surface lime to the field in the
• Application of more than 100 lb of urea spring. Note that surface applications of lime
(42 lb N/a) at one time may cause temporary take a long time to change pH in the root
iron deficiency (yellow leaves with green zone. Monitor pH to avoid problems.
veins). • Soil pH in a blueberry field will never
• Do not apply more than 50 to 60 lb N/a ­increase if no lime or other alkaline material
(total) on first-year fields without sawdust is applied.
mulch. Overapplication of N will burn plant • Rabbiteye blueberries grow best at a lower
leaves and roots. soil pH than do highbush blueberries and
• Do not use fresh horse manure and/or shav- are more sensitive to overapplication of N
ings as a nitrogen source, as the pH of these fertilizer. They require less N than highbush
materials often is too high. types.

13
 Western Oregon highbush blueberry
nutrient management calendar
Year before planting
• Soil test.
• Acidify with elemental S if needed (see “Site preparation,” page 4).
• Apply P and K if needed.

Year 1
• Test pH and nutrient content of sawdust or other organic material to be used.
• Add 5 lb N/a per unit of sawdust incorporated.
• Incorporate sawdust and fertilizer.
• Form raised beds.
• Plant blueberries (spring or previous fall).
• Test pH of surface mulch.
• Apply surface mulch.
• Prune to remove fruit buds.
Spring. Apply a total of 0.6 oz N (1.3 oz urea) to individual plants. N should be “split.” Apply 0.2 oz N (0.4 oz urea)
in April, May, and June, or use a single application of controlled-release material (see page 7).
Test soil pH and add amendments as needed.
Summer. Collect the most recent fully expanded leaves from current-season shoots between late July and mid-
­August. Sample 5 leaves each from at least 10 plants distributed randomly throughout the field (see page 3).
Request laboratory analyses for nutrients listed in Table 8.
Winter. Prune to remove fruit buds.

Year 2
Spring. Increase N rate to 0.7 oz/plant. Follow other recommendations for first year.
Winter. Prune to shape bush and limit crop.

Years 3 and 4
Spring. Apply 0.8 to 0.9 oz N/plant. Follow other recom- Table 8.—Blueberry tissue nutrient concentration
mendations for Year 1. ­guidelines.
Summer. Harvest crop. Normal concentration
Winter. Prune. Nutrient (%)
Nitrogen (N) 1.76–2.00
Older than 4 years or at canopy closure Phosphorus (P) 0.10–0.40
Spring. Add surface mulch and nutrients other than N as Potassium (K) 0.41–0.70
needed. Calcium (Ca) 0.41–0.80
To plants more than 6 years old, apply a total of 110 Magnesium (Mg) 0.13–0.25
to 165 lb N/a (240 to 360 lb urea/a). N should be split Sulfur (S) 0.11–0.16
into thirds and applied in April, May, and June (see Normal concentration
page 8). Nutrient (ppm)
Summer. Collect tissue samples as described in year 1. Boron (B) 31–80
Request laboratory analyses for nutrients listed in Copper (Cu) 5–15
Table 8. Iron (Fe) 61–200
Harvest crop. Manganese (Mn) 30–350
Winter. Prune. Zinc (Zn) 8–30

© 2006 Oregon State University.

This publication was produced and distributed in furtherance of the Acts of Congress of May 8 and June 30, 1914. Extension work is a cooperative program of
Oregon State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Oregon counties. Oregon State University Extension Service offers educational programs,
activities, and materials—without discrimination based on age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, race, religion,
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Published November 2006.

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