Duke Highbush Blueberry

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

5-6 Feet

Mature Spread

5-6 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Duke Highbush Blueberry grows well in Northern regions of the United States and is a relatively recent introduction from the USDA breeding program. Duke produces high yields of dark blue fruit from early July. Duke has slightly tart, but juicy fruit that is best for cooking and preserving and freezing.

Highbush Blueberries have early, mid and late season producing varieties. To obtain the highest yields of fruit and longest season of harvesting, plant a bush of each type. The blueberry harvest will continue non-stop throughout the summer. Blueberries also have stunning fall foliage that adds interest to a mixed shrub border or the kitchen garden. The fiery reds and oranges of Duke Blueberry add pops of color in the garden when other perennials and shrubs are preparing to die back for the winter.

Duke Highbush Blueberry Care

Duke Highbush Blueberry thrives in acidic soil that is extremely well-draining and rich in nutrients. Full sun helps the shrubs to produce masses of flowers late in the spring which will turn into the juicy berries of summer. Shade either early in the day or late in the afternoon is acceptable. Heavy clay soil needs to be amended so that the drainage is good and consistent, especially during the winter months. 

Applying a mulch of organic compost or leaves in the fall will help to amend the soil and make it more fertile and moisture retentive. Annual pruning of Blueberries should be done early in the spring before new growth emerges. Cutting out any branches that are dead, dying or crossing will help the shrub keep a natural open vase shape. The oldest, thickest branches need to be cut out at the ground each year. This will help Duke remain vigorously growing and producing fruit. A slow release fertilizer formulated for acid loving plants should also be applied in the early spring.

Duke Highbush Blueberry Spacing

Highbush Blueberries can be planted singly in the garden if space is tight because they are self pollinating plants. Yields of fruit will be much higher if Duke Highbush Blueberry is planted with other varieties. Choose those Blueberries that will have the same bloom time.

The mature height and width of Duke is 5-6 feet. Space plants at 6 feet on center to allow for proper air circulation around the plants and easy access to all sides for harvesting fruit.