“Blue Moon” berries refer to specific cultivated varieties, not a generic type. These names are given to cultivars with unique characteristics, offering distinct options for gardeners.
Understanding “Blue Moon” Berries
The term “Blue Moon” is most commonly associated with a cultivar of highbush blueberry, Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Blue Moon’. This blueberry, bred in New Zealand, is known for its large, firm fruit with a good bloom, possessing a sweet and aromatic flavor. The berries often exhibit a characteristic pentagonal shape. Mature ‘Blue Moon’ blueberry plants develop an upright growth habit, potentially reaching heights of 10 to 12 feet and spreads of 6 to 8 feet.
Beyond blueberries, ‘Blue Moon’ also identifies a honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea ‘Blue Moon’), also known as haskap. These berries are similar to blueberries in taste and appearance, often elongated, and ripen earlier. ‘Blue Moon’ honeyberries have soft, dark green foliage and a compact, spreading shrub habit, typically growing 2-4 feet tall. They offer a sweet-tart flavor and are notably cold-hardy.
Cultivating “Blue Moon” Berries
‘Blue Moon’ blueberries thrive in full sun for optimal fruit production, though they can tolerate part shade. Honeyberries also prefer full sun but benefit from afternoon shade in hotter climates. Both types benefit from wind protection.
‘Blue Moon’ blueberries require acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5) that is organically rich, well-drained, and consistently moist. Honeyberries are more adaptable, preferring a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, making them suitable for less acidic soil.
Ensure adequate spacing for planting. ‘Blue Moon’ blueberries need room for their mature size of 10-12 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. Honeyberries are more compact, growing 2-4 feet tall and wide, suggesting a plant spacing of 4-5 feet. Amend the planting area with organic matter to improve soil structure and moisture retention for both.
Consistent watering is crucial, especially during establishment and fruit development. Blueberries have shallow roots that need constant moisture and good drainage, requiring 1-2 inches of water per week. Honeyberries also need consistent moisture, particularly in their early years, though they develop some drought tolerance once established.
For blueberries, use fertilizers with nitrogen in ammonium form, such as a balanced 7-7-7 or 4-3-4 formula for acid-loving plants. Apply fertilizer around the drip line in spring when new growth appears, with a second application after harvest.
Pruning maintains plant health and maximizes yield. For ‘Blue Moon’ blueberries, begin pruning in the third year after planting, in late winter. Remove dead, weak, or competing branches to encourage new growth. Honeyberries are generally pruned immediately after harvest.
While some blueberry cultivars are self-fertile, cross-pollination generally leads to larger berries and higher yields; plant more than one variety that blooms concurrently. Honeyberries are not self-fertile and require at least two different varieties with similar bloom times for successful cross-pollination.
Harvesting and Culinary Uses
Blueberries typically ripen from late May through early September, with peak harvest in July and August. Ripe ‘Blue Moon’ blueberries are deep blue with a whitish bloom, slightly firm, and detach easily. Honeyberries ripen earlier, often in late May or early June, turning dark blue when ready.
Harvest gently, picking individual berries rather than stripping clusters to avoid bruising. Laying a basket or cloth beneath the plant can catch naturally falling berries.
For short-term storage, refrigerate freshly picked berries. For longer preservation, both blueberries and honeyberries freeze well. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to freezer bags.
‘Blue Moon’ blueberries are excellent for fresh eating, baking into muffins, pies, or cobblers, or blending into smoothies. Honeyberries, with their sweet-tart taste, are also suitable for fresh consumption, jams, jellies, and desserts.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Pests like birds may require netting for protection. Insect pests such as blueberry maggot, cherry fruit worm, spotted wing drosophila, aphids, and root weevils can also affect blueberry plants. Maintaining a clean growing area and removing weeds helps deter some pests by eliminating shelter.
Diseases like stem blight, root rot, anthracnose, mummy berry, and powdery mildew can affect blueberries. Mummy berry, a fungal disease, causes berries to shrivel and drop; manage it by removing mummified fruit. Anthracnose causes fruit rot and leaf spots; prevent it by choosing disease-resistant varieties and ensuring good air circulation through pruning.
Environmental stresses, especially related to soil pH and water, impact plant health. Blueberries are sensitive to high soil pH, which can lead to iron chlorosis (yellow leaves with green veins). Regular soil testing and amending with elemental sulfur help maintain acidity. Drought stress reduces fruit size and yield, emphasizing the need for consistent watering.