Vaccinium ashei ‘Pink Lemonade’ Rabbiteye hybrid; Southern Highbush

General Information:  Delicate pinkish-white bell-shaped spring flowers are followed by deep pink-magenta berries, perfect for fresh eating or as a topping. This mid- to late-season variety is said to be self-fertile. A rabbiteye hybrid that fruits mid-summer through fall and may cross-pollinate with other highbush varieties or Rabbiteye varieties. Attractive pink fruits add visual appeal and may deter birds from foraging.

Cultivation Details: Exceptionally sweet fruits have a lemon-y undertone. They are said to be very sweet. Birds also like fruits, so protection is best but sometimes it is said the birds avoid them as they appear to be unripe blueberries, though fully ripe. Legacy is said to be a good highbush type that will cross-pollinate with Pink Lemonade plants. Look for Sunshine Blue or Misty as Rabbiteye hybrids, both said to be good for cross-pollination (better yields and flavor). Pink Lemonade is said to be twice as sweet as regular blueberries. ‘Pink Lemonade’ (USDA Zones 5-8) only requires 300 hours of chill time and can be grown in milder climates. At 4-5′ tall plants are effective in edible hedges where fruiting is beneficial for wildlife or harvesting for human consumption. Blueberries are not bothered by pests or diseases. You can use various tactics to mitigate birds foraging, such as Mylar Flash Tape or covering your plants with netting. It is recommended to fertilize in early spring with a granular or liquid fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Pruning is recommended while plants are dormant, in late winter-early spring. Prune away dead or overlapping branches to improve airflow. New growth should not be pruned.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun for optimal fruit production. Prefers a well-draining, organically rich soil. Plants require a soil pH of 4.5-5.5. The shallow roots require good aeration but plenty of moisture. They do not like overly wet soil or soil that does not drain.