Timing and herbicide type are dependent on the weed species present. Contact your local county Extension office for specific suggestions. In established fields, weed management must be viewed as a continuous effort, rather than a seasonal duty. Seedlings of perennial weeds must be removed before they have a chance to establish. Primary methods of weed management in blueberries include mulching, cultivation, and herbicide application.
Blueberries are poor competitors with weeds.
Thus maintaining a weed-free strip 3 to 5 wide in the row is essential. The residue provides a surface mulch which suppresses spring weed growth. Ground covers also provide a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing environment for clientele in U-pick operations. On the other hand, living organic mulches also can interfere with the crop. Living mulches can compete for soil moisture, creating a need for additional irrigations.