Blueberries need a sunny location and do best with sandy well-drained soils that are kept moist throughout the growing season. Peat and muck soils are suitable, but contrary to popular belief, blueberries do not do well in saturated or poorly drained soils or shade. The soil must be kept moist.
Soil conditions are often modified in blueberry plantings to adjust pH and to improve drainage with the addition of organic matter. If the pH is above 5.5, which is more likely, acidify the soil by adding one of the following amendment 6 months before planting:
- aluminum sulfate at a rate of 6 to 12 pounds per 100 square feet (2.7 to 5.4 kg per 9.3 sq m) to lower the pH one unit (e.g., from 6 to 5)