Good Blueberry Plants for Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania gardens may not provide the best growing conditions for acidic-soil-loving blueberries, but several varieties thrive in the state. Pennsylvania gardeners primarily grow northern highbush blueberry varieties since the plants bloom later than other varieties. Highbush blueberries give the plants several weeks' edge to survive late frosts. One thing gardeners must remember is that blueberry bushes require another plant with which to cross-pollinate; otherwise, the plant will bear little or no fruit.

Bluetta

Bluetta’s fruit ripens very early in the season, giving gardeners a chance to enjoy early fruits, but making the plant susceptible to late spring frosts. The compact bush reaches three to four feet in height at maturity, making it ideal for areas with small spaces or as an attractive addition to landscaping. The medium-sized dark berries feature a tangy flavor. In the fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of red.

Bluejay

A fast-growing plant, Bluejay grows twice as fast as most other blueberry varieties. Reaching heights of six to seven feet, the plant features mild-flavored berries that mature early in the season. Bluejay blueberries stay on the branches far longer than most other blueberries, yet they do not lose their taste. In the autumn, the leaves turn yellowish-orange with bright yellow woods in the winter.

Spartan

Featuring fruit that matures early in the season, Spartan makes one of the most attractive blueberry bushes available. The fruits are also some of the best-tasting around, with light blue skins and a sweet, tangy flavor. The bush grows up to six feet in height with leaves that turn yellow and orange in the fall. Because this plant is a stickler for acidic soil, gardeners must amend their garden soil with compost or other organic matter to ensure the growth of the plant.

Patriot

The University of Maine selected this variety of blueberry bush for colder climates requiring a hardy variety. Patriot answers the need, while also producing lots of dark blue, flavorful berries. The plant spreads to about four feet in height and width and survives in wet soils more easily than other varieties. In the spring, the showy blooms add much-needed interest to the garden while the orange leaves appearing in autumn make it a showstopper in fall gardens.