Duke blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Duke'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Consistent moisture, avoiding waterlogging
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
30+ years
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Duke is known for its high yield of firm, light blue berries with a sweet flavor. It is a vigorous grower and is resistant to some diseases. Duke has one of the earliest harvest times among blueberry cultivars.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist, acidic soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
- Mist cuttings with water to increase humidity during propagation.
- Fertilize with an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and summer.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Transplant young plants in early spring after last frost.
Pro Tip
Use acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune after harvest to promote bushy growth
- Fertilize with acid-specific fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not use alkaline soil that raises pH levels
- Avoid heavy fertilization during late fall
- Do not neglect mulching in hot weather
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Duke blueberry questions
What zones can Duke blueberry grow in?
Duke blueberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Duke blueberry deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Duke blueberry, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Duke blueberry bloom?
Duke blueberry typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Duke blueberry need full sun?
Duke blueberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Vaccinium to compare
Echo Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Echo'
Chandler Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Chandler'
Highbush Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum
Bonus Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Bonus'
Highbush Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Success Mix'
Reka Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum 'Reka'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Duke blueberry with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
