Resources News Weed Management in Blueberry Management of weeds in blueberries is important for several reasons. First, weeds compete with plants for water, nutrients, and light. Second, some weeds can serve as alternate hosts for insects and diseases. For example, chickweed, dandelion, and red sorrel can act as hosts of the tomato ringspot virus. Weeds near the crown of blueberry plants create a condition of high relative humidity, which favors Godronia canker and growth of mummy berry apothecia.
Weeds also can interfere with irrigation and harvest operations.
Finally, weeds that blossom at the same time as blueberries compete with the crop for bee pollination. The most important weed management strategy is employed prior to planting that is, eliminating all perennial weeds. Once these perennial weeds become established in a berry field, they are nearly impossible to remove. Fields that have been in pasture often require extensive weed management prior to planting blueberries, as Canada thistle, quackgrass, and other perennials may be prevalent. Perennial weed control should begin during the year prior to planting.