Blueberry bushes are deciduous and lose their leaves in the winter. The native soil in which blueberries thrive is a moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. The closer this combination is duplicated in the home garden, the more vigorous and productive rabbiteye blueberries are. Blueberry roots lack root hairs that are common on most other plants, but the entire root system is fine and fibrous. The root system is confined to the upper 8 to l0 inches of the soil and is a weak competitor for water and nutrients.
Weed control is extremely important if plantings are to achieve their potential.
Blueberries tolerate partial shade, but full sun is preferred. There are many varieties of rabbiteye blueberries. Planting two or more varieties for cross-pollination ensures fruit set and earlier ripening. Blooming intervals of most varieties overlap enough to ensure adequate cross-pollination. Berries are large in size, blue in color, firm, have dry scars, good flavor and good shelf life.