The ‘Reka’ blueberry bush is a highly popular, fast-growing Northern Highbush variety developed in New Zealand. Known for its adaptability, cold-hardiness, and heavy yields, it is an excellent choice for both beginner gardeners and commercial growers.
Botanical name
Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Reka’
Family
Ericaceae
Spacing
Set plants 1.2-2.4 m (4-8′) apart.
Depth
Dig a hole 51 cm (20″) by 51 cm wide for each bush. Set plants 2.5-5 cm (1-2″) deeper than they were in the nursery.
Requirements
Full sun. Acidic, moist, organic, well-drained soil. pH should be 4.5 to 5.5. Blueberries have shallow roots and require a uniform and adequate moisture supply throughout the growing season. They do well with trickle or drip irrigation.
Pests
Few serious insect pests and diseases.
Growing
Water regularly throughout the growing season. After the first 2 or 3 years, begin to prune out the oldest stems each autumn in order to encourage healthy new growth the following year. Cover fruits with netting in summer to protect fruit from hungry birds.
Harvest
Early to mid-season, typically ready for picking in early-to-mid July
Season
Perennial
