Compact, deciduous Blueberry 'Northcountry' from Marshalls Garden is ideal for pots or beds with a...Compact, deciduous Blueberry 'Northcountry' from Marshalls Garden is ideal for pots or beds with acidic soil. It produces masses of medium-sized, super-sweet berries from June into July, is self-fertile and high-yielding, and attracts pollinators. In autumn the foliage turns vivid scarlet, making this container-friendly variety both productive and ornamental. Perfect in beds with acidic soil, grow in pots or directly in beds to suit. Features great autumn leaf colour. Deciduous variety. A tidy compact variety reaching 60cm (24in) with fruit of an exceptional wild berry flavour. Masses of medium-sized berries form from June and into July on this plant that is perfect planted in a container filled with acidic soil. In autumn, the leaves of North Country turn scarlet making this blueberry variety a sight to behold as well as producing masses of fruit in summer.
This Blueberry 'Northcountry' plant from Marshalls Garden is designed for home gardeners seeking a productive and ornamental blueberry bush, especially those with limited space or acidic soil conditions. Its key benefit is the production of abundant, super-sweet berries from June to July, coupled with vibrant autumn foliage. A minor caveat is its requirement for acidic soil, which may necessitate soil amendments or container growing for many gardeners.
All features
Model Part Number
2 Litre Plant
Brand
Marshalls Garden
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the best soil type for Blueberry 'Northcountry'?
Blueberry 'Northcountry' requires acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soil, often achieved by amending with peat moss, composted pine bark, or using a specialized ericaceous potting mix for containers.
How large does this blueberry plant get?
The 'Northcountry' variety is a compact deciduous type, typically reaching about 60cm (24 inches) in height, making it suitable for containers and smaller garden spaces.
When do the berries ripen?
The berries on the 'Northcountry' blueberry typically ripen from June into July, providing a good harvest period in early to mid-summer.
Do I need to plant more than one for fruit?
No, the 'Northcountry' variety is self-fertile and high-yielding, meaning it does not require another blueberry plant for pollination to produce fruit.
Can I grow this in a pot?
Yes, this variety is ideal for growing in pots or containers, provided you use a large enough pot (at least 40cm diameter) and fill it with an acidic potting mix.
What is the main benefit of this plant besides fruit?
Besides producing delicious fruit, the 'Northcountry' blueberry offers significant ornamental value with its foliage turning a vivid scarlet color in the autumn.
How do I care for it in winter?
As a deciduous plant, it will lose its leaves in winter and enter dormancy. Ensure it has adequate moisture before the ground freezes if planted outdoors. Container plants may benefit from some winter protection in colder climates, such as moving them to a sheltered spot or wrapping the pot.
Troubleshooting
Leaves turning yellow (chlorosis)
This is often a sign of alkaline soil. Test soil pH and amend with acidifying agents like peat moss or sulfur. Ensure you are using an appropriate fertilizer for acid-loving plants.
No or very few berries produced
Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight (at least 6 hours daily). Check if pollination is sufficient (though 'Northcountry' is self-fertile, nearby blueberry varieties can sometimes help). Verify consistent watering and appropriate fertilization.
Poor growth or wilting
Check soil moisture levels; the plant may be too dry or waterlogged. Ensure the soil is well-draining. Verify the plant is in acidic soil and receiving adequate sunlight.
Birds eating the berries
Install bird netting over the bushes as soon as the berries begin to ripen.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Produces a generous yield of delicious, sweet blueberries.
Attractive ornamental features with vibrant red fall color.
Compact size makes it suitable for pots and small gardens.
Self-fertile, simplifying fruit production.
Attracts beneficial pollinators to the garden.
Exceptional 'wild berry' flavor profile.
Cons
Requires acidic soil, which may need amending or specific growing media.
As a deciduous plant, it has no visual interest in winter.
Fruiting is seasonal, typically June to July.
Requires adequate sunlight for best fruit production and color.
Needs consistent moisture, especially when grown in containers.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting:
Choose a location with full sun exposure and well-drained soil.
If planting in the ground, ensure the soil is acidic (pH 4.5-5.5). Amend heavy clay or alkaline soils with organic matter like peat moss, composted pine bark, or sulfur. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
If planting in a container, use a large pot (at least 40cm diameter) and fill it with a specialized ericaceous (acid-loving) potting mix.
Gently remove the plant from its 2-liter pot, loosen any tightly bound roots, and place it in the hole or pot, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Backfill with soil, water thoroughly, and mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Compatibility:
Soil: Requires consistently acidic soil. Not suitable for alkaline or neutral soils without significant amendment.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun for best fruiting and fall color, but can tolerate partial shade.
Watering: Needs consistent moisture, especially during dry periods and fruit development. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Care:
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Use rainwater if possible, as tap water can sometimes be alkaline.
Feeding: Apply a balanced, acid-specific fertilizer in early spring, following product instructions.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is required. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. Lightly prune to maintain shape after fruiting if necessary.
Pest & Disease: Generally disease-resistant. Monitor for common blueberry pests like aphids or birds (netting may be required during fruiting).