Blueberry bushes not only offer delicious fruits but also add a splash of beauty to any permaculture garden with their delicate blossoms in spring and fiery foliage in fall. Whether you’re expanding your food forest or just starting out, here are five interesting blueberry varieties, including the unique ‘Pink Lemonade‘ and ‘Sunshine Blue’, to consider for your edible landscape.
1. ‘Pink Lemonade’ – A Berry with a Twist
The ‘Pink Lemonade’ blueberry is a true conversation starter. This variety produces beautiful berries that boast a distinctive pink hue, a tart yet sweet flavor, and a lovely aroma. They ripen mid to late season and are as delightful in the garden as they are in a fresh summer salad or a homemade pie. Plus, their bright color is sure to add an unexpected pop to your berry patch.
2. ‘Sunshine Blue’ – Compact and Evergreen
‘Sunshine Blue’ is the perfect variety for gardeners with limited space. This semi-dwarf, evergreen blueberry variety grows to about 3-4 feet tall and thrives in containers or small garden beds. It’s known for its tolerance to higher pH soils, which can be a real plus in areas where most blueberries would struggle. The berries are rich and sweet, with a wild berry flavor and a harvest that extends from late spring into summer.
3. ‘Chandler’ – The World’s Largest
If you’re looking for size, the ‘Chandler’ variety is the one to beat. Claiming the title of the world’s largest blueberry, ‘Chandler’ can produce berries the size of cherries! This variety has a prolonged fruiting period, offering you fresh blueberries for up to six weeks. The flavor is classic and sweet, making these jumbo berries a hit for fresh eating and baking alike.
4. ‘Legacy’ – The Bountiful Producer
‘Legacy’ blueberries are known for their productivity and their ability to withstand the test of time. These plants can produce high yields of firm, flavorful berries that store well. The foliage remains vibrant throughout the season, making ‘Legacy’ a beautiful ornamental as well as a practical choice for your edible garden. They are often the last berries to ripen, extending the blueberry season into the fall.
5. ‘Jewel’ – An Early Gem
The ‘Jewel’ blueberry variety is a Southern highbush type, prized for its early ripening and large, sweet berries. It’s a great choice for warmer climates, requiring fewer chill hours to produce fruit. ‘Jewel’ plants are vigorous and disease-resistant, making them a reliable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to enjoy an early-season harvest.
When planning your blueberry patch, consider these diverse varieties for a garden that’s not only productive but also vibrant and full of surprises. Blueberries are an excellent addition to any permaculture design, offering seasonal interest, habitat for pollinators, and, of course, delicious rewards.
Don’t forget to share your blueberry journeys with us using #permacultureposse and #guideyourgarden. We’d love to see which varieties you’ve chosen and hear about your experiences growing these delightful berries.
Happy planting, and may your garden be a bounty of both flavor and color!
