10 Best Fertilizer For Blueberries [Reviewed & Buyer’s Guide]
Growing your food is a matter of immense joy and pride! After all, who doesn’t love walking to their garden early in the morning and picking up a few fresh fruits for breakfast? And don’t even get us started if that fruit is none other than blueberry. From shakes to smoothies and cereal bowls, we […]
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Growing your food is a matter of immense joy and pride!
After all, who doesn’t love walking to their garden early in the morning and picking up a few fresh fruits for breakfast? And don’t even get us started if that fruit is none other than blueberry. From shakes to smoothies and cereal bowls, we can go on and on!
While you head out to buy blueberry seedlings, don’t forget to purchase fertilizer. But then, which fertilizer should you opt for?
To help you answer that, we’ve compiled this list of the 10 best blueberry fertilizers that you can buy today. As a bonus, we’ve also included a buyers’ guide in the end so that you make a well-informed decision.
Without any further delay, let’s dive into the deets!
Best Fertilizers For Blueberries
Here is the list of the 10 best fertilizers for blueberries that you can use to ensure healthy, abundant crops of delicious fruits.
1. Dr. Earth 703P Organic Acid Fertilizer – Best for Fast Nutrient Release
The first on our list is the Dr. Earth 703P Organic Acid Fertilizer. Its all-natural ingredients provide optimum nutrients during both the transplant and growth stages. What’s more, the fast-release formula maintains a steady flow of nutrition throughout.
- Contains pro-biotic, seven champion strains of beneficial...
- Makes soil more acidic; 100-percent natural and organic;...
Why Did We Like It?
First things first, we were impressed with the positive customer feedback for this product. The list of organic ingredients is spearheaded by probiotics and seven strains of beneficial soil microbes. Additionally, it contains eight highly productive strains of ecto and endo mycorrhizae.
In a nutshell, the formula is handcrafted from feed-grade ingredients that occur naturally in animals, marine plants, fish, fish bones, and mined minerals. The resultant nutritional balance keeps the soil rich and healthy while also promoting more acidity for the plants to grow.
Moreover, its quick-release formulation means that the roots don’t have to wait for nutrition intake. A portion of its ingredients is specially designed so that they are thoroughly broken down for immediate absorption. With a considerably long feed time of about 6 weeks, a 4-pound packet should last for quite some time.
Lastly, you don’t have to wait for a particular season to start using the fertilizer. Be it during the initial growth stage or anytime during the midseason, its regular application helps the plant grow big blooms and reach its maximum color potential.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Perhaps the only downside to this otherwise exceptional product is the stinky fish smell, which becomes especially strong when the soil is wet. It can attract pets and be harmful to them if swallowed, but using a proper dosage negates that risk.
- Has drought-resistant properties
- Enhances nutrient availability for plants
- Contributes to leaf and bloom growth
- Safe for pets and humans when used as directed
- Smelly
2. J R Peters Jacks Classic Acid Special Fertilizer – Best for Leaf Greening
J R Peters is a name that needs no introduction, and as such, the next product on our list is from this brand. The Jacks Classic Acid Special Fertilizer boasts an efficient formula that feeds both through the roots and leaves for optimum nutrition.
- Perfect for greening up all acid loving garden and...
- Fertilizer Analysis: 17-6-6
Why Did We Like It?
To begin with, we’d say that this fertilizer does full justice to the brand’s reputation with its efficient performance. It comes in a water-soluble form that cuts down on your fertilizing efforts- just mix it in the water, apply it, and forget.
Furthermore, the high concentration correlates to low dosage. In this regard, use 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for outdoor plants, and fertilize once in 10 to 14 days.
However, indoor plants would need a bit more, i.e.,1/4th teaspoon per gallon of water during every watering session. The amount is still low compared to a lot of other fertilizers, so the 1.5-pound tub should last long.
Talking about its nutrients, this fertilizer completely takes care of greening the leaves, as is evident from the high nitrogen content in the NPK ratio. And with an equal amount of potassium and phosphorus, there would be no compromise on the all-round development of the plant.
Overall, the J R Peters Jacks Classic Acid Special Fertilizer is one of the most cost-effective products on the market.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Since it’s a concentrated formula, you need to be careful about the amount being used to prevent the roots from burning. Hence, we’d strongly recommend going through the dosage instructions written on the tub and strictly adhering to them.
- Dual feeding action
- Zinc and magnesium boost soil acidity
- Facilitates iron intake by plants
- Cost-effective
- Overfertilizing may burn roots
3. Espoma UL30 Organic Soil Acidifier Fertilizer – Best for Soil pH Reduction
Another one of our top recommendations is the Espoma UL30 Organic Soil Acidifier Fertilizer. If you’re looking for the perfect alternative to lower the soil pH, then this product might just fit your needs. Plus, it helps in developing the color to its full potential.
- FOR USE ON: For all Acid-loving plants; Use Espoma Organic...
- TURNS HYDRANGEAS BLUE: Turn Mophead & Lacecap hydrangeas...
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, we were really intrigued by the claim of reducing the soil pH to the desired level, and we are decently satisfied with how this product lives up to that. The natural ingredients come in pellet form for easy application.
All you have to do is sprinkle them around the drip line of the pot and water them as usual. For best results, we’d suggest starting using it in the spring and fertilizing once in about 60 days till you see the desired results. You can either check the soil pH or observe the bloom color to understand the results.
In addition, the slow releases formula gives the soil adequate time to adjust to nutrient absorption. Besides, the absence of aluminum sulfate makes it safer for use as there’s minimal risk of toxic accumulation in the soil. And thanks to its versatility, you can fertilize both new and established potted plants.
Lastly, the product comes in a sealable bag that keeps the pellets sans contamination for a long shelf life.
What Could’ve Been Better?
It may be helpful to know that the instructions are to put on a pair of gloves before application. Other than that, we feel the slightly expensive price tag can be a constraint for potential users, especially in the case of first-timers.
- Counters alkalinity of soil
- Negates toxic accumulation
- Natural minerals
- Can also be used for hydrangeas
- Expensive
4. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Plant Food
We can’t complete our list without mentioning Miracle-Gro, so here it goes: the Water Soluble Plant Food is designed to feed acid-loving plants for fast results. And the super affordable price means that you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket!
- Instantly feeds acid-loving plants for lush foliage and...
- Feed every 1-2 weeks
Why Did We Like It?
Having tried a number of water-soluble fertilizers, we wanted to explore more options, and we’re glad we went for this product. It’s a dedicated plant food with rich iron content that creates a favorable growing environment for acid-loving plants. Apart from blueberries, you can also use them for several other varieties like azalea, camellia, gardenia, hibiscus, holly, hydrangea, orchid, rhododendron, etc.
Similar to the J R Peters Jacks Classic Acid Special Fertilizer, its high nitrogen content promotes color and helps grow bigger blooms in a quick time.
Moreover, its water-soluble property makes it quite versatile in terms of application. Simply mix the recommended amount (on the package) to a gallon of water in a sprayer feeder or watering can and apply once every 1 to 2 weeks.
Generally, 1 tablespoon for outdoor plants and ½ teaspoon for indoor plants should do the job. And while at it, focus on soaking the plant base rather than the leaves or nodes.
Last but not least, it’s available in a variety of sizes and specialized use formulas. While we opted for the 1.5-pound package, you can go for the 8-ounce box for testing purposes.
What Could’ve Been Better?
In the absence of a sealing mechanism, the packaging is prone to spill and damage the product in the long run. There, we’d advise storing it in a proper container to prolong the shelf life.
- Easy to dissolve
- Fast results and lush foliage
- Feeds the roots
- Comes in different sizes and variants
- Poor packaging
5. Down To Earth Cottonseed Meal
Down To Earth brings the highest quality cottonseed meal to your doorstep with this high-quality product. Formulated naturally, it contains no animal by-products or preservatives to help your plants achieve their full growth potential.
- Somewhat acidic in nature, cottonseed meal is excellent for...
- Apply 8 lbs. per 100 square feet
Why Did We Like It?
The Down To Earth Cottonseed is a suitable match for gardeners who like their products to be eco-friendly from the inside out. For starters, it contains significant amounts of nitrogen, potash, phosphorus, and other essential micronutrients that feed the plants over a period of time. Thus, you don’t have to engage in the frequent application.
On that note, the brand recommends using around 8 pounds per 100 square feet for outdoor plants. Additionally, the other application rates are mentioned on the packaging for greater user convenience. The measurement is such that young plants receive about ½ cup while established plants feed on 1 cup of the meal.
Another advantage of this product is that much like the Espoma UL30 Organic Soil Acidifier Fertilizer, it brings down the pH of the soil. So, you can use it practically for any plant that grows in acidic soil. It provides the required nutrition without posing the risk of burning the roots. Lastly, the packaging can be used in the compost after you finish using the product.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although we’re all for natural ingredients, we aren’t totally convinced about its efficiency when used independently. Considering its moderate NPK ratio of 6-2-1, it may be a better idea to use this in tandem with other organic fertilizers or plant meals.
- Preservative-free
- Doesn’t contain animal byproducts
- All-natural nutrients and packaging
- Slow-release formula
- Low efficiency when used alone
6. Espoma HT18 Holly Tone
Halfway through the list, and we’re back with a second fertilizer from the house of Espoma. Its professional-grade formula is approved for organic gardening and designed specifically for almost all acid-loving plants. Plus, the long shelf life makes it all the more cost-effective.
- THE ORIGINAL: Holly-tone is the original plant food for all...
- FOR USE ON: Not just for Holly; Use Holly-tone organic...
Why Did We Like It?
Honestly, the performance of the Espoma UL30 Organic Soil Acidifier Fertilizer got us interested in the first place. But what appealed to us the most is the proprietary bio-tone microbes formulation that serves multiple purposes. Unlike a lot of other fertilizers that aid soil neutrality, it makes the soil acidic to create the perfect environment for your blueberry plants.
Furthermore, it makes the plant capable of enduring external stress while developing deep roots and better blooms. Quite versatile, we say!
Application-wise, there isn’t much to do either. Depending on the area and type (indoor or outdoor) of the plant, sprinkle the recommended amount across the top layer. Next, grab a trowel and mix gently with the soil. Once done, water sufficiently so that the granules can be absorbed well by the plant base.
Finally, proper storage of the fertilizer will provide you with a long shelf life to feed various plants like azaleas, hydrangeas, rhododendrons, evergreens, strawberries, and so on.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Similar to the Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Plant Food, the packaging for this product is a letdown. Neither can it be used for storing the fertilizer safely, nor is it easy to read the instructions due to the large sticker pasted all over the writing. We had to spend considerable time peeling it off carefully to preserve the text underneath.
- Improves soil structure
- Hassle-free application
- Long shelf life
- Organic ingredients
- Bad packaging
7. Winchester Gardens Select Organics Berry Fertilizer
The Winchester Gardens Select Organics Berry Fertilizer is a good option for first-time gardeners looking for a standalone fertilizer. Meant for all-around development, it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants.
- Great for most indoor and outdoor plants in your garden
- Encourages all-around growth
Why Did We Like It?
We liked how this product makes life easy for new gardeners. Unlike the Down To Earth Cottonseed Meal, this product is extremely effective when used alone. Therefore, you don’t have to strain your nerves to find its complementary product. The 2-3-4 NPK ratio comes across as a nice blend for promoting the full development of the plant.
On top of that, other natural ingredients like bone and feather meal provide a healthy amount of micronutrients, which is also a reason why you don’t need to add anything else.
Despite being a granulated fertilizer, it doesn’t require to be dissolved in water before application. While you can add the instructed amount to the soil before planting, another way to do it is by sprinkling it around the base. Once the roots are secured underneath and the base water, the granules feed nutrients with precision.
Last but not least, the 3-pound bag comes with a scoop for accurate measurements.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The Winchester Gardens Select Organics Berry Fertilizer requires a lot of drainage, so make sure that your planter is equipped with adequate drainage holes. Also, the sand-like texture means that it doesn’t get fully dissolved in water, thereby causing accumulation over time.
- Less product required for indoor plants
- Long feed time, apply once in 6 to 8 weeks
- Contains sulfate of potash magnesia
- Pocket-friendly price
- Requires more drainage than usual
- May accumulate and clog the surface with regular use
8. Down To Earth Acid Mix
Getting a step ahead of the Cottonseed Meal, the Down To Earth Acid Mix is made from additional nutrients that help in the complete development of acid-loving plants. With intermittent use, it gives luscious foliage and larger berries without you putting in a lot of effort.
- To encourage lush flowers and fruit, use our acid mix in...
- Apply 5 lbs per 100 square feet. 6 lb box
Why Did We Like It?
At first glance, the packaging tells you that the formulation is specially designed for blueberries, so we just couldn’t keep it away from our list! But there are more reasons for including it in our list. To start with, let’s talk about the ingredient list.
Apart from the 4-3-6 NPK ratio, it contains a cottonseed meal, rock phosphate, and kelp meal. Sure, a few of them may come across as out of place, but the combination is effective in providing adequate nutrients to the roots. Plus, the 2.5% humic acid keeps the soil pH in check.
We also loved how it can be used both as a fast and slow-release fertilizer for different growth stages. If your plants are yet to be potted, add them to the soil to have a strong start. Alternatively, mix it lightly in the soil around the base of mature plants for a gradual release of nutrients.
Finally, similar to the Down To Earth Cottonseed Meal, the biodegradable packaging can be used as compost for practically zero wastage.
What Could’ve Been Better?
As is the problem with some other fertilizers on the list, some users have complained about the flimsy packaging that makes it difficult to store the fertilizer. Thus, you may want to preserve the excess in a tight, sealed container for better shelf life.
- Convenient application
- Plant food and non-plant food elements
- Can be used as a fast and slow-release fertilizer
- Biodegradable outer package
- Pack is not suitable for safe storage
9. FoxFarms Strawberry Fields Potting Soil
Towards the end of the list, it’s time to introduce the FoxFarms Strawberry Fields Potting Soil. This fruiting and flowering potting soil are specially designed to give the plants a much-needed boost during their development.
- Strawberry fields fruiting & flowering potting Soil is...
- Fox farm 15 cu Ft
Why Did We Like It?
Frankly, we were quite happy to break the monotony of pure fertilizers with this potting soil. With a host of beneficial organic elements like worm castings, bat guano, oyster shell, aged forest products, and peat moss, it’s capable of fulfilling the preliminary nutrition needs of the plants. But we were pleasantly surprised by the 0.5-0.3-0.3 NPK ratio, which is pretty good for potting soil.
Additionally, it can be used for container gardens, house plants, trees, shrubs, and roses, making its versatility at par with some of the top fertilizers on the market.
Fill your desired planter or container with enough potting soil so that the roots aren’t cramped and the stem is upright. Next, gently secure the plant by pressing around the base and water thoroughly. And to avoid root rot, make sure that the container facilitates adequate drainage.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are a couple of things that we’d have liked to improve. Firstly, it’s a “hot mix” by composition, so it may not be suitable for seedlings and young plants. Secondly, we couldn’t find any dedicated element that prevents pest intervention, which is the basic criterion for potting soil.
- Pump ups blooms
- Works well as a top dressing
- Fully organic
- 2-year shelf life
- Not for young plants
- Doesn’t prevent pests
10. Nelson Acid Loving Plant Food
The Nelson Acid Loving Plant Food is made from high-quality ingredients that are combined for a slow and gradual release that feeds nutrition directly to the roots. Besides, it’s suitable for use on a wide variety of flowering plants.
- PLANT FOOD: For All Acid loving plants and high pH soils...
- FERTILIZER FOR ACIDIC SOILS: Excellent source of nutrients...
Why Did We Like It?
Straight off the bat, it was the ingredients list that won our praise. The 3 iron sources ensure plant health, while the triple nitrogen elements aid coloration and prevent root burns. Similarly, the cottonseed concentration is essential for maintaining a steady flow of nutrition over a period of time.
Not only that, but it also has 4 acidifying sources that lower the soil pH. Start by applying it at the onset of the spring season, and then every other month throughout the growing season. With continued use, the plants develop tolerance to dry weather conditions, while the flowers and booms increase in size and strength.
Carefully crafted around soil biology, this fertilizer shows immediate results, which ultimately culminate in long-lasting benefits as your plants grow. Now we know why it has continued to earn the trust of gardeners for over 30 years!
Last but not least, the sturdy plastic jar comes with a tight lid so that you can store the product safely for years to come.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The only slightly troubling aspect is that you should never dissolve the granules in water before application. Sprinkle directly near the base and then water as required. Missing out on this small detail can render the fertilizer potentially useless.
- Can be utilized as a top dress or mixed with the soil
- Builds weather tolerance
- Minimizes the risk of root burn
- Available in 4 size variants
- Can’t be mixed with water before use
Best Blueberry Fertilizer Comparison Table
| Products | Dimensions | Weight | NPK Ratio | Feeding Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Earth 703P | N/A | 4lbs | 3-4-3 | Every 6 Weeks |
| J R Peters Fertilizer | N/A | 1.5lbs | 17-6-6 | Once Every 10 to 14 Days |
| Espoma UL30 | 26″ x 5″ x 12″ | 30lbs | N/A | Once Every 60 days |
| Miracle-Gro | 3.75″ x 3.75″ x 5.75″ | 1.5lbs | N/A | Once Every 1 to 2 Weeks |
| Down To Earth Cottonseed Meal | 3.5″ x 8″ x 10.8″ | 6lbs | 6-2-1 | N/A |
| Espoma HT18 | 18″ x 12″ x 2.25″ | 18lbs | 4-3-4 | Twice Per Year |
| Winchester Gardens Fertilizer | 9″ x 3″ x 11.5″ | 3lbs | 2-3-4 | Once Every 6 to 8 Weeks |
| Down To Earth Acid Mix | 3.5″ x 8″ x 10.7″ | 6lbs | 4-3-6 | Twice Per Year (For Established Berries) |
| FoxFarms Strawberry Fields | 26″ x 18″ x 5″ | 30.5lbs | 0.5-0.3-0.3 | N/A |
| Nelson Acid Loving Plant Food | 5.47″ x 3.7″ x 3.66″ | 2lbs | 9-13-11 | Beginning of Spring, Every Other Month (Growing Season) |
Buying Guide For The Best Blueberry Fertilizer
Knowing the 10 best products is the job half done. Why, you ask? Well, without understanding the key features, it’s highly likely that you’ll end up with one that doesn’t meet your requirements. And we take it upon ourselves to lead you to the fertilizer that’ll be the perfect match for the conditions.
So, bear with us for some more time as we walk you through the factors to consider before making a purchase.
-
Slow-Release
The biological composition of blueberries is such that the nitrate form of nitrogen can become toxic for the plant. As a result, you’d never want to invest your hard-earned bucks in a fertilizer that has nitrate nitrogen. But what you should do is go for one that has ammonium in any form, including urea, cottonseed meal, or ammonium sulfate.
Usually, most slow-release fertilizers contain this element, so it’s a good way to ensure that you have the right ingredients. Furthermore, the gradual release prevents leaf loss and other growth issues, resulting in better-quality fruits.
-
Low pH
Since blueberries are acid-loving plants, it goes without saying that blueberry fertilizers are formulated to serve this purpose. However, some regions tend to have more alkaline soil compared to others. In that case, we’d suggest going for a fertilizer that has dedicated pH-lowering ingredients. This way, your plants get the required nutrition while the soil underneath remains acidic throughout the growth cycle.
-
Anti-Root Burn
The last thing you’d want from the fertilizer is to burn the roots of your beloved plants. Hence, it’s a common practice among homeowners to choose an organic or natural fertilizer that has no added chemicals. That said, these products may still pose a threat of damaging the roots.
From our experience, we’d say that it’s best to stick to the recommended dosage. Don’t increase the quantity suddenly even if you think that it’s not enough. Depending on how your plants are responding, you may slightly increase the frequency.
-
Feeding Time
While some fertilizers are for use once every 4 to 6 weeks, others may have more frequent applications. Again, the decision to buy either one will rely on the plant’s condition and growth stage. For younger plants, we’d advise opting for one that’s to be applied once in 14 to 20 days. As the plant grows, you may switch to a fertilizer that gives more time for reapplication.
-
NPK Ratio
Apart from a balanced NPK ratio, you can choose a fertilizer that’s high on a certain chemical for specific reasons. For example, a high nitrogen ratio will be beneficial for plants that have slow growth. Similarly, a high phosphorus percentage will help the roots grow deep and strong.
Yellowing leaves, poor growth, or reduced fruit production can indicate a need for fertilization.
It’s not recommended, as blueberries have specific acidic requirements. Stick with fertilizers designed for acid-loving plants.
Yes, organic fertilizers such as blood meal, fish meal, and cottonseed meal can be excellent sources of nutrients for blueberries. Make sure they are formulated for acid-loving plants.
No, it is not necessary to fertilize blueberries during their dormant period.
Container-grown blueberries need more frequent fertilization, as nutrients are washed out by watering. Look for liquid or water-soluble fertilizers that can be applied regularly.
Blueberries benefit from micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and zinc. Many fertilizers formulated for blueberries include these nutrients.
Application rates vary depending on the specific fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Over-fertilizing can harm plants.
If you have over-fertilized, flush the soil with clean water to help remove excess fertilizer. Be cautious with future applications and follow product directions.
Fertilizers for Blueberries FAQs
Conclusion
The only thing stopping you from planting those blueberry seedlings is the right fertilizer. And now that you have the list to choose from, get on with the job!
But if you’re still having a tough time choosing the right one for your needs, allow us to assist you a bit more by naming our favorites.
With acidic soil-promoting ingredients, the Dr. Earth 703P Organic Acid Fertilizer is our top pick. A close second is the J R Peters Jacks Classic Acid Special Fertilizer, whose concentrated formula feeds optimum nutrients to the soil. And for the third position, the Espoma UL30 Organic Soil Acidifier Fertilizer finds an honorable mention.
That brings us to the end of this guide. Hope our efforts help you find the best product that suits your needs, and of course, your budget. We’d love to hear from you in the comments section below.
Till we meet again!
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