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Blueberry pollination #890219

Asked November 23, 2024, 6:10 PM EST

Hi! I am growing blueberries on Park Point in Duluth MN I have had them in the ground for 6 years, they look great, and they get many flowers but sadly very little fruit. I fear the problem is that they might be blooming before the bees or pollinators are active. Most of the bushes are Patriot blueberries. I can see that my bushes again have many flower buds ready to go in the spring, but I am afraid I will have another blueberryless summer. I have searched and search for an answer and the only solution I can come up with is to order some mason bees and a home for them, but I am unsure if this will work at all. I would so appreciate a workable answer. Thank you so much!

St. Louis County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good question. I'm sorry that you are not getting any blueberries to eat. I agree, it sounds like pollination is the problem. You mentioned that you have Patriot variety which is a good one. Blueberries are pollinated by bumblebees. Bumblebees are large and fuzzy because of that they are more active both early in the season and early in morning cool temps. The research shows that you will get better pollination with two or more varieties. I suggest you buy a couple of more plants to add to your collection. Polaris or St. Cloud are a couple of possible choices. Keep trying, it's well worth it!

Paul -Master Gardener volunteer


An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 23, 2024, 9:26 PM EST

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