Blueberries are one of the most rewarding fruits to grow—but getting your bare root blueberry plants off to a good start hinges on one critical factor: water. Proper planting matters, but watering is the #1 key to transplant success.
In this blog, we’ll show you exactly how to water bare root blueberry plants before and after planting, how to manage watering during drought, and why hydration makes or breaks your berry harvest.
🪣 Before Planting: Soak the Roots
As soon as your bare root blueberry plants arrive, soak the roots in a bucket of clean water for 4 to 12 hours.
This will:
- Rehydrate the plant after shipping,
- Wake the root system from dormancy,
- Help prevent transplant shock.
💡 Don’t soak longer than 24 hours. Be sure to plant right after soaking.
🌱 Step 1: Water Thoroughly After Planting
Once your blueberry plant is in the ground, water it deeply and slowly. This settles the soil, removes air pockets, and gives the roots the hydration they need to get started.
✅ For best results, mix Soil Moist Transplant Mix into the planting hole. It retains moisture and slowly releases it to the root system—especially helpful in dry or sandy soil.
🗓️ Weeks 1–2: Consistent Watering is Crucial
During the first two weeks:
- Water every 2–3 days unless it rains.
- Make sure the soil stays consistently moist (but not soggy).
- If the leaves wilt, the plant is telling you it needs water. Wilting is your sign to act fast!
💧 Shallow-rooted blueberry plants need steady moisture to get established.
🗓️ Weeks 3–8: Deep Watering Less Often
Once the roots begin to take hold:
- Water 1–2 times per week, depending on weather and soil.
- Always water at the base—avoid overhead watering to prevent disease.
- If leaves look limp or dry during the day, your plant is thirsty.
Mulch around the base (2–3 inches deep) to reduce evaporation and regulate soil temperature.
☀️ Drought Conditions: Don’t Skip Watering
Blueberries require consistent moisture—even drought-tolerant varieties won’t thrive without it. In drought:
- Water deeply twice a week, 1–2 gallons per plant.
- Mulch heavily to keep the soil cool and moist.
- Use Soil Moist Transplant Mix to extend the time between watering and reduce stress.
🌿 Blueberries can’t access deep water like trees can—they need regular, shallow watering to survive in dry conditions.
🫐 Where to Buy the Best Bare Root Blueberry Plants?
The best source? Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC.
Why shop with us?
- ✅ Top-tier bare root blueberry plants
- ✅ Fastest shipping—no long waits
- ✅ Lowest prices and biggest selection
- ✅ FREE 1-Year Plantsurance Guarantee
→ Store credit if your plant doesn’t survive
→ Zero Stress. All Success.
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