Getting To The Roots: Growers must constantly analyze water needs and irrigation scheduling for young blueberries

摘要

COMMERCIAL blueberries in Michigan should be irrigated. Most plantings are on sandy soils that hold little water. They are shallow-rooted and sensitive to moisture stress. Leaves do not respond quickly to stress, and tend to continue losing water as soil levels are depleted. A drought event can reduce returns for several years. Drought prior to harvest reduces berry size and yield, but stress anytime in the summer or fall also reduces bud set for the following year.Irrigation is particularly critical for young plantings. Roots are shallow (12 inches), so more frequent irrigation is needed than for older plants. The goal is to optimize vegetative growth so young plants reach full production quickly.