A hybrid variety of the Rabbiteye Blueberry (tolerant of the heat and drought of the South), Brightwell is one of the most prolific blueberry bushes out there. It's said that growers can get up to 15 pounds off of a Brightwell plant in just one season. Grown commercially in North America, they’re also a perfect fit for the home garden or orchard. Care Pick a sunny place to plant. All berry plants need at least 6 hours of full sun to produce berries. Keep consistently watered but not soaked for good berries; fertilize organically in early spring. Blueberries do best in an acidic soil with a pH balance of 4.5–5.5. You can either purchase acidic soil or test soil that you already have. If you have a pH balance higher than 5.5, you can incorporate peat moss into the soil which is acidic and can lower the pH balance. Brightwell is not self pollinating and should be cross pollinated with Powderblue, Premier, Climax and Tiffblue varieties. In winter, prune out any dead branches. Young plants will need minimum pruning. As the plant ages, prune out 1/3 of the older canes each year while the plant is dormant, leaving new branches to fruit the following season. Blueberries bloom and fruit on old wood, so be sure that you don't trim off too much of last season's branches or it will negatively impact fruiting. Grown best in hardy zones 7-9. Growth Habit Deciduous. Brightwell matures at approximately 10-12' tall and 6-8' wide. Toxicity For pets, blueberries are a safe, healthy treat in moderation, packed with antioxidants and vitamins, but should be given plain, washed, and in small quantities. Unfortunately, deer like blueberry plants!
