14 Best Blueberry Companion Plants To Grow (And 5 To Avoid)

My family and I love blueberries. Our kids devour them faster than we can buy them. Buying them at the grocery store is easy, but growing them was much harder for me. 

Did you know with certain blueberry companion plants you can substantially improve your blueberry’s yield? It starts by choosing the right plants to plant next to them.

In this article, I’m going to share some perfect companion plants blueberries prefer to be next to, and how to improve fruit production while adding visual allure to your garden setup.

Key Takeaways

• Companion planting can significantly improve their growth and productivity by creating beneficial plant partnerships.
• Blueberry companion plants such as clover, evergreens, dogwood trees & shrubs, thyme, cranberry bushes, columbine, and mountain laurel provide several advantages like increased fruit yield, enhanced garden appeal, and optimal use of garden space.
• Clover acts as a natural mulch that keeps the soil moist and cool around blueberry bushes while also providing essential nitrogen through its nitrogen-fixing properties.
• Evergreens provide a beautiful backdrop for blueberries all year round while offering shade and protection during extreme weather conditions.

Understanding Companion Planting

Companion planting is a powerful, natural method of enhancing your garden’s productivity and beauty. It’s all about creating plant partnerships for mutual benefit.

Acid-loving plants like blueberries thrive alongside companions that favor similar soil conditions, such as Rhododendron and azalea.

One remarkable aspect of companion planting is the potential for improved nutrient uptake.

For instance, nitrogen-fixing plants such as White Dutch Clover and Crimson Clover enhance soil fertility by adding essential nitrogen – an element particularly beneficial for blueberry bushes’ growth.

Companion placement also has a significant role in pest management; certain combinations can deter harmful insects while attracting beneficial ones like bees for pollination during the spring blueberry blossom season.

Remember, successful companion planting requires understanding each plant’s needs and behaviors – their preferred soil pH levels (blueberries love acidic soil), sunlight requirements, water needs, etc., then using this knowledge to create beautiful pairings with blueberries that share those same preferences or offer complementary advantages.

Advantages of Companion Planting with Blueberries

This unique way of gardening offers several advantages including increased fruit yield, enhanced visual appeal, and optimal use of garden space.

Increased Fruit Yield

You’ll notice a remarkable increase in your blueberry harvest when you incorporate companion planting into your gardening strategy.

You’ll see healthier soil and more pollinator insects like bees in your garden.

These hardworking insects play a crucial role in boosting fruit yield by promoting effective cross-pollination between different blueberry varieties.

Notably, nitrogen-fixing plants like White Dutch Clover and Crimson Clover add considerable value to this process.

Their ability to improve soil fertility by adding nitrogen creates an optimal environment for your blueberries to flourish and produce more fruit.

Look into diversifying with companion plants and watch your blueberries burst with bounty!

Enhanced visual appeal

Companion planting doesn’t just boost your fruit yield; it’s a ticket to an irresistibly appealing garden.

Pairing blueberries with select plants, like the whimsical fern or the vibrant azalea and rhododendron, transforms a plain green space into a visual spectacle.

Imagine walking through your berry garden with lush evergreen shrubs serving as a sturdy backdrop for colorful dogwood trees and shrubs.

Bunches of ripe, juicy berries peeping out from amidst groundcover-type plant thyme’s small purple flowers is nothing short of picturesque!

What’s more, if you add Heather’s light purples and pinks into this mix, you’re setting up a fairyland right in your backyard – one that will surely attract useful pollinators too.

Not only are we talking about productive gardening here but also beautifully rewarding landscaping!

Optimal use of garden space

You want to choose companion plants for your blueberries that won’t compete for resources or overshadow the shrubs.

By selecting plants that have similar soil and sun requirements, you can maximize your garden’s potential.

Dogwood trees and shrubs, for example, are great options as they enjoy similar soil and sun conditions as blueberry bushes.

You can optimize every inch of your garden while creating a visually stunning landscape.

Getting To Know Your Blueberries In Detail

Plant Family Ericaceae (Heath family)	Watering Conditions Well-draining soil, keep consistently moist	Mature Size Varies by variety, typically 2-7 feet tall
Soil Requirements Acidic soil with good organic matter; pH 4.5-5.5	Sunlight Needs Full sun to partial shade	Temperature Tolerance Hardy in USDA zones 3-10
Growth Habit Deciduous shrub	Flowering Period Spring	Flower Color White or pink
Foliage Characteristics Small, elliptical, green leaves with red fall color	Propagation Methods Softwood cuttings, layering, tissue culture, or purchasing young plants	Pruning and Maintenance Regular pruning to remove dead wood and improve airflow; mulching to retain moisture
Common Pests and Diseases Birds, aphids, mites; blueberry stem gall, mummy berry, powdery mildew, and root rot	Companion Planting Azaleas, rhododendrons, other acid-loving plants	Edible Parts Edible, sweet, and nutritious berries
Wildlife Attraction Attracts birds like robins and blue jays	Toxicity Non-toxic	Special Care Instructions Protect fruit from birds with netting; provide winter protection in colder climates

14 Best Companion Plants For Blueberries

Finding great companion plants for blueberries is like a game, but can be quite challenging as well.

Here are my favorite plants to plant near my blueberries in the garden.

1. Clover

Clover is an excellent companion plant for blueberries because it offers multiple benefits to both plants.

First, clover acts as a natural mulch, keeping the soil moist and cool around the blueberry bushes.

This helps keep soil conditions at their best. Clover improves nitrogen in your garden’s soil by taking it from the air and converting it into a form that can be used by your plants.

Blueberries are heavy feeders of nitrogen, so having clover nearby helps to provide this essential nutrient to the blueberry bushes.

Clover attracts beneficial insects like bees and other pollinators that play an important role in cross-pollinating blueberry flowers during their blooming season.

2. Evergreens

Evergreens are excellent blueberry companion plants. These lovely trees and shrubs enhance the beauty of your yard and create a lovely backdrop for your blueberry bushes.

With their year-round foliage, evergreens create an attractive and permanent structure in the garden that complements the changing seasons.

They also offer shade and protection for your blueberries during extreme weather conditions, acting as a natural windbreak or sunshade.

Whether you choose dwarf blue spruce trees, emerald green arborvitae, or blue point juniper, these evergreen companions will enhance the overall beauty and functionality of your blueberry garden.

3. Dogwood trees & shrubs

My blueberry garden wouldn’t be complete without the beautiful companion of dogwood trees and shrubs.

These lovely plants not only add visual appeal to my garden but also thrive in similar soil and sunlight conditions as blueberries.

The combination creates a harmonious and picturesque setting for my precious blueberry bushes.

Dogwoods come in various varieties, such as pink flowering dogwood and white Kousa dogwood, allowing me to choose the perfect match for my taste.

The gorgeous blooms of the dogwoods complement the small leaves of the blueberry shrubs, creating a stunning contrast that always catches my eye.

Plus, having these two together attracts beneficial insects and pollinators to help with fruit production.

4. Rhododendron & azalea

Rhododendrons and azaleas are fantastic plants to plant near blueberries.

Not only do they thrive in acidic soil, just like blueberries, but they also provide a visually pleasing backdrop to your blueberries.

These beautiful flowering shrubs attract beneficial insects that help control pests for your blueberry plants.

Plus, the vibrant colors of rhododendrons and azaleas create a stunning contrast with the deep blues of the blueberry bushes.

With similar soil conditions and planting requirements, these companions make perfect sense for your garden.

And let’s not forget that rhododendrons and azaleas can attract pollinators, aiding in the propagation of your beloved blueberries.

5. Heather

Heather is an early-blooming plant that I highly recommend as a companion for your blueberries.

It adds a beautiful pop of color to your garden, and it also attracts beneficial insects and pollinators that help your blueberry bushes produce more fruit.

In addition, heather thrives in acidic soil, just like blueberries do, making them perfect garden buddies.

Heather is an easy and low-maintenance plant that will not only enhance the visual appeal of your blueberries but also provide valuable benefits for your precious berries.

6. Thyme

Thyme makes a great companion plant for blueberries, and there are several reasons why.

First, thyme is a low-growing ground cover plant that spreads easily, making it an ideal choice for filling in empty spaces around your blueberry bushes.

Plus, its delightful herbal scent acts as a natural pest deterrent, keeping unwanted insects away from your precious crop.

Second, thyme requires similar soil conditions as blueberries – both thrive in acidic soil with good drainage.

This means that planting thyme and blueberries together will ensure they have the perfect environment to grow and produce abundant fruit.

Lastly, thyme attracts beneficial pollinators like bees to your garden, which can improve the overall pollination of your blueberry flowers and result in bigger yields.

7. Cranberry bushes

Cranberry bushes are fantastic companion plants as well. They are one of the best companions because they add visual interest to your garden, but they also provide a host of benefits.

Cranberry bushes, like blueberries, thrive in acidic soil, making them the perfect match.

Also, cranberry bushes attract pollinators like bees during their blooming season, which helps increase fruit yield for both berries.

These low-maintenance plants require little attention once established and can tolerate different moisture levels in the soil.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and productive pairing, definitely consider planting blueberries and cranberries together in your garden!

8. Columbine

Columbine is a beautiful perennial plant that makes an excellent companion for your blueberry bushes.

With its variety of delicate and unique flowers, columbines add a touch of elegance and visual appeal to your garden.

Not only do they enhance the overall aesthetics, but they also attract beneficial insects and pollinators, which are essential for maximizing fruit yield in your blueberry plants.

Columbines thrive in similar soil conditions as blueberries, making them an ideal choice for planting together.

Their low-growing nature also works well as ground cover around the base of your blueberry shrubs, helping to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

So consider adding some columbines to create a stunning floral display while promoting optimal growth and productivity in your blueberry patch.

9. Mountain Laurel

Mountain laurel is a classic blueberry companion plant that adds both beauty and functionality to your garden.

With its gorgeous leaves, mountain laurel complements the small leaves of blueberry bushes perfectly.

This evergreen shrub thrives in shady conditions under the canopy of overhanging evergreen trees, making it an excellent choice for creating visual interest and adding depth to your garden.

Mountain laurel is pretty low-maintenance. It doesn’t require very much pruning or care. This makes it an ideal companion for busy gardeners.

Consider planting some mountain laurels alongside your blueberries to create a stunning landscape while ensuring optimal growth and productivity.

10. Fern

Ferns are an excellent choice when it comes to beneficial plants for blueberries.

They not only add a vibrant touch of green to your blueberry shrubs but also thrive in shady areas, making them the ideal partner for these berries.

Ferns prefer shaded conditions and do not compete with blueberries for light, ensuring that both plants can grow harmoniously together.

Plus, they provide additional moisture retention and act as a natural weed suppressor, keeping your blueberry patch neat and tidy.

If you’re looking to create a beautiful pairing in your garden while maximizing the productivity of your blueberries, consider adding ferns as their companions – you won’t be disappointed!

11. Holly

Holly is another option as a companion plant for blueberries because it thrives in well-draining, moist, acidic soil – just like blueberries.

Its visual interest also adds a touch of beauty to the garden, especially during wintertime when other plants may be dormant.

Plus, holly provides shelter and protection for birds and other wildlife.

So not only does it create a visually appealing backdrop for your blueberry shrubs, but it also supports the ecosystem in your garden.

12. Hydrangea

Since hydrangeas also like more acidic soils, they make fantastic companion plants for blueberry bushes.

You can create a lovely backdrop that improves the aesthetic value of your space by planting hydrangeas in your garden’s more shaded places.

These beautiful flowers also attract important pollinators during the blueberry blossom season, increasing overall productivity in your garden.

Trimming hydrangeas is crucial to prevent them from overshadowing the blueberry plants, but their vibrant colors add beauty and charm to your garden.

With their ability to attract pollinators and contribute to a balanced ecosystem, hydrangeas help promote optimal growth and productivity for your beloved blueberries.

13. Lilac Bush

Lilac bushes are not only beautiful additions to any garden, but they also make fantastic companion plants for blueberries.

These fragrant flowering shrubs attract pollinators, such as bees, during the blueberry blossom season, helping to ensure a bountiful fruit yield.

Lilacs thrive in acidic soil, just like blueberries, making them a perfect match.

They can add a burst of color and visual appeal to your blueberry patch while providing essential habitat for beneficial insects.

It’s important to trim lilacs properly to prevent overshadowing the blueberry bushes and ensure optimal growth for both plants.

Plus, lilacs act as natural pest repellents for blueberries, keeping damaging insects at bay.

14. Strawberry

Strawberries are ideal companion plants for blueberries.

Not only do they both thrive in acidic soil, but they also share a preference for the same climate zone. This makes them perfect garden companions.

Strawberries not only add visual appeal to your garden with their beautiful blooms and vibrant red fruit, but they also attract pollinators like bees during the blueberry blossom season, improving fruit yield.

Plus, growing strawberries near your blueberry bushes optimizes space usage in your garden and allows you to enjoy two delicious fruits from one fruitful plot.

Plants to Avoid Planting Near Blueberries

When it comes to companion planting and finding plants that pair well with blueberries, staying away from certain plants is important.

Here are plants you should avoid planting near your blueberry bushes:

1. Alkaline soil plants: I don’t recommend planting tomatoes, peppers, or asparagus near your blueberries because they thrive in more alkaline soil conditions.
2. Walnut trees: Walnut trees release a chemical called juglone into the soil. This can be toxic to your blueberries. Keep them at a safe distance from your blueberry bushes.
3. Grass: While grass may seem harmless, it can become invasive and compete with your blueberries for nutrients and water. It’s best to keep grass away from your blueberry plants.
4. Raspberries: Raspberries prefer more alkaline soil and tend to intrude on blueberries’ space if they are planted too closely together. You might try planting blueberries and raspberries together in pots or other small containers if you wish to.
5. Mint: Although mint is a common herb to cultivate in gardens, it is not a good companion plant. Mint has a tendency to spread quickly and take over your blueberry plants.

Companion Planting Blueberries in Containers

Growing blueberries in containers allows me more control over my plants.

Containers are great options for gardeners with limited space or people who want more control over the soil conditions.

Here are some helpful tips for companion planting blueberries in containers:

• Choose a container: Select a large container that is at least 18 inches deep and wide. This will give the blueberry bush enough room to grow and spread its roots.
• Acidic soil mix: Blueberries thrive in acidic soil, so make sure to use an acidic potting mix or amend regular potting soil with peat moss or pine needles. Aim for a pH level between 4 and 5.
• Nitrogen-fixing plants: Incorporate nitrogen-fixing plants like White Dutch Clover or Crimson Clover into the container. These plants help improve soil fertility by adding nitrogen back into the soil.
• Evergreen companions: Plant evergreen shrubs like Dwarf Blue Spruce Trees, Emerald Green Arborvitae, or Blue Point Juniper around the blueberry container. Not only do they provide beautiful year-round foliage but they also act as windbreaks and provide shade during hot summer days.
• Flowering dogwoods: Add flowering dogwood trees and shrubs such as Pink Flowering Dogwood, White Flowering Dogwood, Cherokee Princess Dogwood, or White Kousa Dogwood next to your blueberry containers. They make stunning visual companions while attracting pollinators like bees.
• Fragrant rhododendron & azalea: Position Lavender Rhododendrons and Bollywood Azaleas close to your blueberry containers for bursts of color and fragrance. These acid-loving plants can handle shadier spots in your garden.

Remember to regularly water your container-grown blueberries as they have specific moisture requirements – keeping them hydrated is crucial for their overall health and productivity.

Also, don’t forget to prune your blueberry bush each year to encourage new growth and better fruit production.

Companion planting blueberries in containers allows you to grow blueberries right on your patio or balcony.

Give it a try and enjoy fresh blueberries from the convenience of your own home!

Essential Care Guidelines for Blueberries

Very specific growing instructions are needed for the juiciest blueberry harvest. Your best bet would be to plant them in acidic, well-draining soil that has a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5.

Blueberries need full sunlight. So make sure they get at least six hours daily and you’ll do great.

Also, regular watering is vital to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as blueberry plants are sensitive to both drought and excessive moisture.

Pruning should be done annually during late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and promote healthy growth.

Lastly, protect your blueberry plants from pests such as birds by using netting or bird scare tactics to prevent fruit loss.

Soil Requirements And Acidity Levels

Soil is the most important factor for the overall success of your blueberries. Blueberry plants love acidic soil with pH levels of around 4.5.

This acidic environment allows for optimal nutrient absorption and growth.

To make sure your soil stays within an acceptable range I recommend testing your soil’s pH levels regularly.

If you notice your soil is not naturally acidic enough, make adjustments by adding peat moss or pine needles to increase its acidity.

Remember, maintaining the right soil pH will not only promote healthy plant growth but also maximize fruit production from your beloved blueberry bushes!

Light Requirements

In my experience, I’ve found that blueberries thrive in full sun to partial shade. Blueberry plants require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to produce optimal fruit yield.

So when planning your garden layout, make sure to choose a location that provides adequate sunlight for your blueberries.

If you live in an area with scorching summers, providing some light afternoon shade can help protect the berries from sunburn.

Keep in mind that excessive shade can reduce overall fruit production, so finding the right balance is key.

Remember, blueberries love their sunshine but appreciate a little shade to keep them cool during hot summer days!

Water Requirements

Watering blueberry plants is crucial for their overall health and productivity. Blueberries have shallow root systems, which means they are more susceptible to drought stress.

As a general rule of thumb, blueberry plants require around 1 to 2 inches of water per week during the growing season.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that every garden and climate is unique, so adjusting watering frequency may be necessary.

To maintain proper soil moisture for your blueberries, consider using mulch around the base of the plants.

Mulching helps conserve water by reducing evaporation and suppressing weed growth.

Organic mulch such as wood chips or pine needles also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time.

When watering blueberries, it’s best to provide deep soakings rather than frequent shallow waterings.

Deep soakings encourage deeper root growth and promote better drought tolerance in the long run.

Pruning

Pruning is an essential part of caring for your blueberry plants. By selectively removing certain branches and stems, you can encourage optimal growth and productivity.

Pruning helps to maintain the overall health of the plant by improving airflow and sunlight penetration, which reduces the risk of disease and promotes better fruit development.

It also stimulates new growth in younger branches, leading to increased fruit yield year after year.

Don’t forget to grab your pruners and give those blueberry bushes a little trim for a bountiful harvest!

Protection

Protecting our blueberry plants from potential pests and diseases is extremely important.

One effective way to safeguard your blueberries is by choosing the right companion plants that can offer natural protection.

For example, planting thyme around your blueberry shrubs adds a wonderful aroma to your garden. But, the real benefit visit acts as a natural repellant that deters pests.

Also, evergreen trees and shrubs like spruce, pine, and juniper trees do a fantastic job of protecting against strong winds and harsh weather conditions.

Selecting the right companion plants for your blueberries ensures their health and longevity in your garden while minimizing the need for chemical pesticides or treatments.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right companion plants for your blueberries is a smart gardening strategy that can greatly enhance their growth and productivity.

By selecting plants that thrive in acidic soil, attract pollinators, and complement the visual appeal of blueberries, you create a harmonious ecosystem that benefits all plant species involved.

Try experimenting with beautiful pairings like clover, evergreens, dogwood trees & shrubs, rhododendron & azalea, heather, thyme, cranberry bushes, columbine, and mountain laurel ferns (the options are endless) to see how your garden loves the new additions.

FAQs About Blueberry Companion Plants

What are the benefits of planting companion plants with blueberries?

Planting companion plants alongside blueberries can offer a range of benefits, including improved pollination, pest control, and enhanced soil fertility.

Some companion plants also help to attract beneficial insects that can aid in blueberry production.

How do strawberry plants make a great companion for blueberries?

Strawberry plants have similar soil and sun requirements as blueberries, making them great companion plants. They also help attract pollinators to the area.

Can I plant dill around the blueberry plant?

Yes, planting dill around the blueberry plant can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects, making it a fantastic companion plant for your garden.

What are some other companion plants that grow well with blueberries?

Other companion plants that grow well with blueberries are thyme, raspberries, and highbush blueberries.

These plants improve soil conditions and attract pollinators that help with fruit growth.

Can I plant strawberries and blueberries together?

Yes, strawberries and blueberries can be planted together as they have similar soil and sun requirements. They also make a visually appealing combination in the garden.

Are raspberries and blueberries a good companion planting combination?

Yes, raspberries and blueberries make a good companion planting combination. They have similar soil and sun requirements and can benefit from each other’s presence.

Can thyme be planted with blueberries?

Yes, thyme can be planted with blueberries. Thyme is a fantastic herb that can help improve soil conditions and attract pollinators.