Temperate Fruit & Orchards > Temperate Fruit Discussion

Acidify soil for blueberry?

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funlul:
While I was away, my "Bountiful Blue" blueberry in full bloom suffered a period of total drought due to neglect. Fortunately it survived, but the new leaves are kind of reddish.

OK, I should not blame the reddish color on the drought, the plant was always like it after moving in. If my cheapo test is to be trusted, the soil pH is above 7. I have wanted to acidify / improve the soil. Bought one lb of ferrous sulfate powder 2 years ago but never figured out what amount to use. There are no instructions on the bag, internet sources are more like commercial application. Any one has experience working with ferrous sulfate?

I also consider mulching the pot with some pine needles. Will it help at all? Many thanks!!

2 years ago...


now  :'( :'( :'(

funlul:
I found the following from an ebay product description for 30 lbs of ferrous sulfate:


--- Quote ---This product is used to correct iron chlorosis in plants
Reduce alkalinity in soil and as a mineral feed suppliment for livestock
We use this product in bulk for a variety of agricultural uses.
As a soil applied fertilizer or nutrient: Dissolve 2-4 dry ounces in 1 gallon of water. Coverage is 1000 - 5000 sq. ft.
As a folier application: dissolve 1 dry ounce in 1 gallon of water.
--- End quote ---

Hmmmmm... Still not sure how often to apply.

Bush2Beach:
I've seen pine bark, chips, needles , peat and diluted vinegar work to acidify and make blueberrys happy.

funlul:

--- Quote from: Bush2Beach on March 08, 2015, 02:27:16 PM ---I've seen pine bark, chips, needles , peat and diluted vinegar work to acidify and make blueberrys happy.

--- End quote ---

Thank you! I am gathering pine needles... But they are slow, really slow?
I'll try the 2 oz per gallon water recipe above, maybe... er... twice a year???? (clueless!)

marklee:
I just add "Ph down" and water the bushes, they are growing in pots but have done great for 5 years. Then prune them when they are dormant.

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