Plant Factory Direct
Blueberries Rabbiteye | Vaccinium ashei
Description
Rabbiteye Blueberry | Vaccinium ashei
General Info
Rabbiteye Blueberries are very popular in zones 7-10. Known for their fast growth, they can grow to maturity in 10 years, reaching 10-15’ tall and 8-10’ wide. The demand for this heavy bearing bush-tree is exceeding our production. Abundant fruit are borne from the newest years growth and depending on the variety you can expect a dime to nickle size berry. These delicious berries are a favorite among gardeners of all ages in zones 7-10. With their fast growth rate, they can reach maturity within 10 years, growing to an impressive 10-15 feet in height and 8-10 feet in width. Due to high demand, our production of this heavy bearing bush-tree is limited. However, the newest growth yields abundant fruit, with berries ranging from the size of a dime to a nickel.
Soils, Fertility, and Mulching
Blueberries like acid soils with a PH from 4.0-5.5 for optimal growth. Good soil media is very important due the roots living close to the soil line. Mulching and an adequate water source is needed to produce maximum output. Invest in a high-quality acid fertilizer several times a year starting in spring through fall to keep the plants healthy and berries coming. 1 ounce of Ammonium Sulfate should be applied year 2 and increase an extra 1 ounce each year thereafter. Our professional potting soil is a good choice to incorporate in each hole before planting. After planting, heavy mulch helps keep the surface roots cool and conserves moisture in the soil.
Pollination
For best results we recommended having at least 3 different varieties for pollination purposes. Bees are very critical for cross pollination, so it is highly advisable to add plants to your property that attract beneficial pollinators.
Water Needs
Blueberries should never be allowed to dry. It is recommended to water ½ gallon of water per day when the plant is actively growing the first year and add an additional ½ gallon per day the following year, (1 gallon). At year 5, 5 gallons a day or 35 gallons per week is recommended. Hydration equals plump good fruits.
Harvest
It is important to let the berries ripen on the stem. Be patient when picking too early. Taste test is best way to determine ripeness.
Size of plants
Our Blueberries are grown in 3 gallon containers ranging from 2-3 feet tall and are full bushes.
- Deer Resistant: No
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Reblooming: No
- Pollinator friendly: Yes
- Cold and Heat Tolerant: Yes
Varieties available:
Brightwell
- fast grower
- heavy producer
- large fruit,
- midseason producer
Georgia Gem
- fast grower
- moderate producer
- medium size fruit, sweet tasting
- self-fertile, pollinator recommended
Powder Blue
- fast grower
- high yielding, berries are produced in clusters making easy picking
- Mid-season producer.
Premier
- fast grower
- large fruit
- high quality and high production
- Mid-season producer.
Tiftblue
- most widely variety used
- fast grower
- large fruit
- mid-late season producer
- very cold hardy
Ordering
Our processing time usually is 1-3 days after receiving the order. Orders taken after 4:00 pm on Wednesday through Sunday will be shipped the following Monday.
Shipping
The Plant Factory, Inc. offers the very best shipping processes to ensure quick, safe, and near-perfect results every time. Cold and heat may deter your order temporarily until it is safe to receive and plant your plants/trees in your area. At our discretion, we will hold order till the threat is gone ensuring you with the healthiest-viable product ordered.
Summer/Winter Shipping Restrictions – Summer above 95 degrees | Winter - Below 34 degrees
Just a heads up! We share pictures and videos on our site to showcase our products and highlight the quality of our growing process. However, depending on the season you purchase, you can receive a plant that is smaller or larger than what is presented. There's a chance you might see a plant blooming like the one on our site, but it's not guaranteed. We often trim off blooms since they don't travel well. When you buy our plants, think of it as a wonderful investment in your future garden! Enjoy the journey of nurturing them to their fullest potential.
What makes Plant Factory Direct a great option?
We grow our plants right here at our nursery! Our knowledgeable staff uses top-notch horticultural practices to make sure our plants are healthy and of the highest quality. We choose your plants with the same care and thoughtfulness as if we were picking them for ourselves. We aim to go above and beyond what our customers expect. We take pride in providing wonderful “out of the box” experiences, along with friendly customer service and speedy resolutions.