what not to do when pruning blue berries?
There are many ways you can go about this. As long as you don't completely chop it down, then you won't really mess much up. Here is an article for more information: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blueberries/blueberry-plant-pruning.htm&sa=U&ved=0ahUKEwigwf3KuJTZAhXhm-AKHbmyACsQFggFMAA&client=internal-uds-cse&cx=009296322515861343460:jftykenwinc&usg=AOvVaw1hAw5Dv209pEeiaOMyMI-y
I am a home gardener, unsure of my zone though, either zone 8 or zone 9. I have 2 blueberru plants that seem to be doing fine but the two that I planted in 2016 don't seem to have any foliage. Is this normal for this time of year or do I have other issues that you can help me with. I am attaching photos of both plants. Thank you, Paul Tumbusch
Most varieties do lose their leaves. Low brush blueberries can be more adapted to the cold, and may not lose them in your area, but highbrush will most definitely lose their leaves. Here is a link to our collection of blueberry articles that will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blueberries/
Blueberry bush flowers but doesn't produce plump berries. Looks like empty shells.
You may have a few different reasons for the lack of fruit.
I would first suggest a lighter colored pot for a container Blueberry.
Also keep an eye on the soil moisture level, keep it moist but not soggy. Make sure the container is well draining.
This article has more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blueberries/grow-blueberries-in-pots.htm
Planted blueberries 2 years ago. One died first year. 2 remaining plants are woody with little to no fruit I live in Pacific NW area
I would start with a soil test. The correct pH and nutrients are vital for fruit development. You will also have more fruit if your plants are different varieties. Cross-fertilization produces a bigger crop unless you have a self-fertile cultivar. Do your plants flower but not set fruit? If so, they are not getting pollinated. Try planting bee-friendly flowers near-by that flower about the same time as the blueberries. Here is a comprehensive review of blueberry care in PNW. https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec1304/html
I am establishing a patch of blueberry bushes around an approximately 23-24 year old tame blueberry bush. In order to maximise harvest season length, vary fruit type and enhance cross pollination benefits, how do I identify the variety of this established bush? I understand that I will likely have to wait until leaves and blossoms (perhaps berries also) appear in the growing season. Please advise me accordingly. Thank you in advance for this helpful guidance. Jim Weaver
Unless you know, for sure, what varieties they are, it will be hard to tell. You can get close when you see leaves, growth pattern, timing of flowering, and fruit color, though.
Alternatively, you can take photos, or plant samples up to your local extension service. They will be able to tell you a lot more about the specific cultivars.
This link will help you find the closest one to you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/
I've had two blueberry bushes for the past 8 years and they produce many blueberries . But someone told me I should prune back the bushes to yield more blueberries and it's healthy for the bushes . When , how , and why should l prune my blueberry bushes . Especially how , I really don't how to prune them . Sincerely , Timothy
This article will help with pruning.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blueberries/blueberry-plant-pruning.htm
Some fruits are turning dark purple and shriveled prior to harvest
This is normal for a plant that has more fruit than it can support at the time. It is not, usually, a cause for concern. I would fertilize with a fertilizer specific to blueberries. They contain ammonium sulfate, rather than nitrates. This will be better suited for them. Also, dolomitic lime, and iron sulfate will help with conditioning the soil, and sweetening the fruit.
This article will give you more information on the care of blueberry plants: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blueberries/growing-blueberry.htm