Blueberry 'Emerald' (Vaccinium corymbosum)
Regular price $18.95Early-Season Southern Blueberry with Large, Sweet Berries
The Emerald Blueberry is a vigorous Southern highbush variety developed specifically for warm, low-chill climates. This evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub forms a dense, upright plant with glossy green foliage and an attractive, tidy habit. In late winter to early spring, it bursts into bloom with delicate white flowers, quickly followed by large, firm, emerald-blue berries with a mild sweetness and low acidity. The fruit ripens early—often weeks ahead of many other varieties—making Emerald a favorite for gardeners eager for the first blueberries of the season.
Highly productive and adaptable, Emerald performs beautifully in the ground or in large containers. Its year-round foliage, early harvest, and reliable yields make it both a practical fruit producer and a polished ornamental for edible landscapes.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Blueberries have long been valued in North America for their flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Southern highbush varieties like Emerald expanded blueberry growing into warmer regions, allowing subtropical and Southern growers to enjoy homegrown berries traditionally limited to cooler climates. In the kitchen, Emerald blueberries are excellent for fresh eating, baking, freezing, smoothies, and preserves. Their early harvest makes them a seasonal highlight—often the first homegrown fruit of the year.
Why Grow Emerald Blueberry?
- Early-season harvest with large, sweet berries
- Bred for low-chill, warm Southern climates
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage with ornamental appeal
- Excellent for containers, raised beds, or in-ground planting
- Heavy producer when paired with another Southern highbush variety
Growing Tips
(Also known as: Emerald Blueberry, Southern Highbush Blueberry; botanical synonyms may include Vaccinium corymbosum hybrids used in Southern highbush breeding)
Plant Blueberry ‘Emerald’ in full sun for best fruiting. It requires acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter—ideal pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; mulching with pine bark or needles helps maintain acidity and moisture. This variety excels in warm climates and tolerates mild frost, though extreme freezes may damage early blossoms. Feed with an acid-loving fertilizer in early spring and again after harvest. Prune lightly in late winter to remove old or weak wood and encourage vigorous new growth. ‘Emerald’ thrives in both ground and large containers when provided with acidic potting mixes. Growth is moderate to fast, with high humidity generally beneficial. Protect ripening berries from birds if needed. Expect your first meaningful harvest within 1–2 years after planting.
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