Growing blueberry (northern highbush)
berry / bush fruit
WINTER CHILL NEEDED
~800–1200 hrs
POLLINATION
Partly self-fertile — crops much better with a partner
Pollination
Sets some fruit alone; berries are bigger and more numerous with a second variety nearby.
Growing it
Zones 4-7. Absolutely needs acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5) - grow in amended beds or large pots with ericaceous mix. Shallow roots want steady moisture and mulch.
Will you get enough chill?
Blueberry (Northern highbush) needs roughly 800–1200 hours between 32 and 45 °F over winter to break dormancy evenly. Check your area with the chill hours calculator. Low-chill breeding has pushed many varieties well below the figure here, so read the plant tag.
Chill and pollination are given at the fruit-type level; specific cultivars can differ. Values are typical ranges for home-garden planning.