Reports from the University of Florida indicate that Misty has a tendency to over-produce flowers and fruit on young plants and vegetative development is restricted if plants are not pruned aggressively. Another marked advantage of mild, coastal growing conditions is the relatively long harvest period which in this trial lasted up to 12-14 weeks. Warmer production areas typically produce berries over a shorter harvest season lasting 3-6 weeks. Newer varieties have been bred with reportedly improved fruit quality characteristics over that of Sharpblue. To date we have limited data available showing production potential of different blueberry varieties under coastal California growing conditions.
Sharpblue fruit is attractive and flavorful and readily accepted in the marketplace.
Sharpblue is widely adapted and vigorous and should be one of the key varieties to be included in new plantings until information is available which clearly shows advantages for the newer varieties. Cultivation Successful blueberry cultivation in many parts of California requires special soil and land preparation. The soil pH should be amended with applications of peat in the initial planting hole and elemental sulfur or other forms of sulfur in the surrounding soil. The amount of sulfur to apply will vary with pH and soil type. The pH change in heavier textured soils is slower than sandy soils and it is important to anticipate the needs of newly established plants when preparing the soil.