The Premier Blueberry is a variety from the Rabbiteye family that is a a vigorously fruit-bearing plant that is naturally heat tolerant. Blooming in February to early March, this blueberry will be covered in tiny white or pink flowers. Premier will produce ripe fruit from May to June in the southern growing region. 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. Premier is not self pollinating and should be cross pollinated with Brightwell, Premier, Climax and Powderblue 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. Premier matures at approximately 6-8' 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!
