Blueberry O'Neal
Blueberry O'Neal is a vigorous, early-season blueberry celebrated for its exceptionally sweet flavour and high fruit quality. Producing large, firm berries from early Summer, it begins flowering in mid to late Spring. In warmer regions, this semi-evergreen shrub retains foliage year-round, with Autumn tones adding seasonal interest in cooler climates.
Perfect for edible gardens, container growing, or mixed shrub borders, it suits cottage, lifestyle, and coastal garden styles.
Plant in full sun with acidic, free-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruiting. Allow 1.2–1.5m spacing between plants for optimal air circulation and yield.
Mature size: Upright and bushy, reaching around 1.5–1.8m tall and 1.2m wide.
Trimming: Prune in late winter to early spring while dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or weak stems to maintain an open, upright structure. For older plants, rejuvenate by cutting back a third of the oldest canes at ground level to encourage fresh, vigorous growth.
Deadheading: Not required, but clear away any unharvested or dried berries after fruiting to keep the plant neat and discourage fungal issues.
Fertilising: Use a fertiliser designed for acid-loving plants (e.g., camellias or rhododendrons) in early spring. A second, lighter feed in late summer may support continued growth. Avoid lime or alkaline fertilisers to preserve soil acidity.
Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during establishment and fruiting. ‘O’Neal’ prefers moist but well-drained acidic soil. Mulch with pine bark or similar organic matter to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Pest Control: Generally pest-resistant, but protect ripening berries from birds using netting. Monitor for aphids and scale insects on new growth, and treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if needed.
Disease Management: Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. In humid weather, check for powdery mildew (white powdery coating on leaves) and treat with a sulphur-based fungicide if present. Maintain airflow with regular pruning and proper spacing.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
