Description
Duke is an early-season highbush blueberry known for its bright, sweet flavour with mild acidity and excellent firmness. It grows best in full sun (6–8+ hours) and requires acidic, well-draining soil with a pH of 4.5–5.5, rich in organic matter.
Plants begin producing 2–3 years after planting, with harvest starting in early summer. Mature bushes typically yield 10–20 lbs per plant. Duke is valued for its early ripening, strong productivity, good shelf life, and cold hardiness, making it a reliable choice for fresh market and U-pick operations.
Care Instructions
Light: Full sun is best. Provide at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, since blueberries have shallow roots.
Soil: Acidic, well-draining soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Rich in organic matter.
Fertilizing: Use fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Apply in early spring and again in late spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or weak branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Mulching: Apply a 2–4 inch layer of mulch such as pine needles, bark, or wood chips to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and help maintain soil acidity.
Support: Usually no support needed, but staking can help if plants become tall and heavy with fruit.
Pollination: Self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination with other varieties for better fruit set and larger berries.
Harvesting: Berries ripen mid to late summer. Pick when fully blue and slightly soft. Harvest every few days during peak season for best quality.