18 best blueberry varieties

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Who doesn't like to enjoy delicious ripe berries in the summer? Strawberries, strawberries, cherries, plums … blueberries! Yes, thanks to the efforts of breeders, it can now be grown in almost any climatic conditions. All year round, this berry is sold in stores, but the healthiest and tastiest one comes from your own garden.

6 reasons to grow blueberries yourself:

It's no secret that any fresh berries are a storehouse of vitamins. Blueberries are no exception in this regard. In addition, unlike other plants, it has a positive effect on the entire body as a whole. Regular consumption of fresh blueberries:

1. improves vision;
2. activates metabolism;
3. has a great effect on immunity;
4. reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood;
5. removes toxins and toxins;
6. strengthens the walls of blood vessels, etc.

Our experts recommend making a healing broth from the leaves of the plant.

Why exactly blueberries?

1. Its berries are more aromatic, denser, larger, juicier and sweeter than blueberries;
2. High productivity. With proper care of the plant, one bush can produce up to 10 kg of berries;
3. Has a positive effect on health;
4. Versatility. In addition to fresh blueberries, they can be used as a filling for baked goods, preparations for the winter, etc.
5. Unpretentious care.
6. Disease and pest resistance;
7. Frost resistance. Most varieties tolerate low temperatures easily.
8. Aesthetics. During the flowering period, the plant looks very attractive.

We present to your attention a rating of the best blueberry varieties according to the opinion of experts and gardeners. For convenience, it is categorized according to the ripening time.

Rating of the best blueberry varieties

Nomination	a place	grade	rating
The best early blueberry varieties	1	Spartan	5.0
	2	Bluegold	4.9
	3	North country	4.8
	4	Patriot	4.7
	5	Northland	4.6
	6	River	4.5
The best varieties of mid-season blueberries	1	Toro	5.0
	2	Blues	4.9
	3	Bonus	4.8
	4	Denis blue	4.7
	5	Pink lemonade	4.6
	6	Darrow	4.5
The best late varieties of blueberries	1	Nelson	5.0
	2	Elizabeth	4.9
	3	Elliot	4.8
	4	Berkeley	4.7
	5	Brigitte Blue	4.6
	6	Jersey	4.5

The best early blueberry varieties

Spartan

Rating: 5.0

One of the most famous blueberry varieties. Ripens in July. The size of the berries sometimes reaches 2 cm in diameter, but most of the harvest grows to 1.5 cm. Flowering occurs quite late, which does not allow frost damage to the plant, which is why we included this variety in the rating of the best. 'Spartan' gives few shoots, so it multiplies slowly. It is hardly suitable for a large farm. The berry bush grows 1.5-2 meters high. We recommend planting it alongside other blueberry varieties for cross-pollination.

Judging by the reviews, the fruits are soft, juicy, moderately tart, sweet, have an attractive aroma. The pulp is dense, due to which the berries tolerate the transportation process well. Gardeners complain that ripe fruits quickly crumble. They point out that it is sometimes difficult to capture this moment. But if you have time, you can collect about 6 kg of harvest from one bush.

Advantages

• big harvest;
• resistant to disease;
• late flowering;
• can be transported.

disadvantages

• multiplies slowly;
• ripe fruits fall off.

Bluegold

Rating: 4.9

Variety 'Bluegold', originally from the USA, it is classified as a tall plant with decorative properties: during the flowering period, the bush turns into a huge pale pink bouquet. The plant requires careful regular maintenance – it needs to be thinned to get a large harvest. Experts and seasoned gardeners alike agree that the variety is suitable for both manual and mechanized harvesting. Due to the versatility of harvesting, it was included in our ranking of the best blueberry varieties.

Blueberries grow very large – about 3 cm in diameter. It has a dense texture, pleasant aroma and original taste with a slight acidity. The bush begins to bear fruit only in the third year, so you have to be patient. But then it will be possible to collect up to 7 kg of berries from one bush. The plant is resistant to fungus and cold weather. Suitable for growing in 'cold' regions.

Advantages

• a beautiful bush during the growing season;
• mechanized collection of blueberries is possible;
• large fruits.

disadvantages

• requires a lot of attention;
• harvest only in the 3rd year.

North country

Rating: 4.8

Powerful undersized (from 50 to 90 cm), but compact 'North Country' bushes, not whimsical to the ground, resistant to frost and disease. That is why the variety was included in this rating by our experts. The bushes give a harvest in mid-July. The berries, unlike 'Bluegold', are small, their size is hardly 1.5 cm in diameter. They are light blue in color. One bush can be harvested up to 2.5 kg.

The fruits themselves are slightly flattened, so that they can be stored for up to 7 days in a cool room without losing marketability. The taste, judging by the gardeners' reviews, is pleasant and sweet. This is a great variety for those who cannot spend a lot of time on the site. Frost resistance up to -35C allows to grow blueberries not only in the south and in central Russia.

Advantages

• unpretentiousness;
• frost resistance;
• the possibility of long-term storage.

disadvantages

• small harvest;
• normal taste.

Patriot

Rating: 4.7

The variety was bred by American breeders more than 40 years ago, and during this time has gained great popularity around the world. Our experts recommend growing Patriot in bright areas, sheltered from the wind, providing them with moist, dense soil. Bushes grow of medium height and tolerate winter well. Experts note that there is a successful experience in breeding this variety both in Moscow and in Khabarovsk.

The taste of blueberries is high. The pulp is dense, juicy, tasty, has a greenish tint. The fruits are very large, slightly flattened – up to 4 grams. They have one feature: during the ripening period, the berries change color from green to red and only then acquire their blue color with a light waxy bloom. Thanks to this peculiarity and unique taste, 'Patriot' entered our rating. With proper care, you can harvest 5 to 7 kg of blueberries from one bush. Judging by customer reviews, the plant bears fruit stably.

Advantages

• large fruits;
• high winter hardiness;
• excellent taste characteristics;
• consistently large harvest.

disadvantages

• capricious to the place of cultivation.

Northland

Rating: 4.6

The Michigan blueberry variety is perfectly adapted to the Russian climatic conditions, therefore it is widespread throughout the country. Bushes of medium height have high decorative qualities, they are often used to decorate the land. They are not capricious to the type of soil, but they require annual pruning. If you do not cut them, they will grow, this will affect the volume of the harvest.

The first berries can be picked within 2 years after planting, therefore 'Northland' was included by our experts in this rating of the best blueberry varieties. An adult bush is on average capable of producing 5 kg of blueberries. The fruits are small, but very sweet. The pulp is framed by a thin skin. They are perfect not only for fresh consumption, but also for preparations for the winter and the manufacture of confectionery, baking.

Advantages

• resistance to bad weather;
• used as a decoration for the site;
• early maturity;
• suitable for cooking.

disadvantages

• needs annual pruning;
• small fruits.

River

Rating: 4.5

A tall early blueberry variety is the best gift for yourself and your site. The height of an adult bush can reach 2.2 meters. 'River', according to our experts, is excellent for commercial cultivation with further sales, so it was decided to include it in the list of the best varieties. The fruits ripen early and have the highest transport characteristics. The first quality fruits appear 3-4 years after planting. The yield of one bush with proper care is 10 kg. The variety is unpretentious, but needs constant pruning.

The berries cannot be called large, but they compensate for their modest size by the amount produced by one bush. Small clusters (8-10 pcs.) Of deep blue color with a classic bloom emit an attractive aroma. Experts estimate taste qualities as 'excellent'. The berries have a blueberry-like dessert aftertaste that is not common. They are recommended to be consumed fresh.

Advantages

• high harvest every year;
• ripe fruits do not crumble;
• long-term transportation is possible;
• early maturity;
• easy to clean;
• not capricious to climatic conditions;
• the bush grows rapidly.

disadvantages

• regular pruning and load shaping;
• medium-sized fruits.

The best varieties of mid-season blueberries

Toro

Rating: 5.0

The variety gives large fruits without a scar at the calyx, weighing up to 4 grams. They grow in long, loose clusters. Ripe berries do not fall or dry out, thanks to this feature, we made it to the rating. In one season, gardeners collect about 9 kg of juicy, dense, fragrant berries from one bush. They recommend harvesting in two stages, this is due to the amicable ripening of blueberries: the first – manually, the second – it can be done both mechanically and manually. Bushes 'Toro' need treatment from diseases and pests, as they are not resistant to them. For breeding in the northern regions, it is also not suitable.

The tall blueberry variety 'Toro' begins to bear fruit in early August. It is great for both amateur and professional growers for commercial purposes. Many world-renowned experts classify 'Toro' as a valuable dessert variety, but this does not mean that the berries can be eaten fresh. They are perfect for making jams, compotes, juices, desserts and other dishes.

Advantages

• large blueberries;
• ripe berries do not fall or dry out;
• amicable maturation;
• productive variety.

disadvantages

• not resistant to pests, diseases, frost;
• suitable only for breeding in the southern regions and in the middle Russian zone.

Blues

Rating: 4.9

This North American variety is good because the fruits ripen almost simultaneously and do not fall off for a long time. So, in the first harvest, you can remove up to 70% of the crop. Bushes grow quickly, but the harvest begins to give only in the third year. The maximum height of an adult plant reaches 1.8 m. The bush tolerates winter normally, -25C will survive without problems in an unheated greenhouse. As disadvantages, our experts point out the plant's pickiness to the soil and the need for regular feeding.

The berries grow in voluminous, slightly loose bunches and are easily separated from the stalk, allowing them to be picked mechanically. Blueberry fruits grow large, with dense, light flesh. Taste qualities, judging by the reviews of gardeners, are excellent. In the taste you can catch the original wine notes, which is why 'Bluej' was in the ranking of the best varieties.

Advantages

• simultaneous maturation;
• frost resistance;
• large berries up to 4 grams;
• original taste.

disadvantages

• picky about the soil;
• needs constant feeding and watering.

Bonus

Rating: 4.8

If you are looking for the biggest blueberry, this is the 'Bonus'. Thanks to the incredible size of the berries, we have included the variety in the ranking of the best. Its fruits the size of a ruble coin can be recognized from thousands in any market. The variety was developed by American experts less than 50 years ago and quickly gained worldwide fame. Blueberries have all the characteristics required for long distance transportation.

The variety tolerates bad and frosty weather, it is resistant to diseases such as fungi and pests. Needs moist soil. The height of the 'bonus' bush is 1.6 meters, from which you can get up to 8 kg of large and juicy berries in early August. The fruits ripen in tight clusters and are suitable for all types of harvest. This is not to say that blueberries have an original and unique taste. Many describe it as juicy and sweet. To summarize, this is a good option for commercial purposes.

Advantages

• the largest berries;
• the best option for sales;
• perfectly tolerates a long journey;
• resistant to cold and disease;
• sweet, juicy berries.

disadvantages

• not found.

Denis blue

Rating: 4.7

Unlike all of the above varieties, 'Denis Blue' was bred by specialists from Australia. But despite this, it grows well not only in the south, but also in the north. Blueberries are resistant to fungus and other diseases, they can survive frost down to -34C. The bushes are medium-sized, begin to produce crops 2-3 years after planting. During the period of berry formation and flowering, the plant serves as a decoration for the site. Some landscape designers choose this variety for its aesthetics.

Blueberries of the Denis Blue variety are characterized by amicable ripening, which facilitates the harvesting process. From one developed bush, you can get from 5 to 8.5 kg. The berries reach almost 2 cm in diameter. The harvested fruits can be stored without problems in a cool place for almost two weeks. Our experts have selected 'Denis Blue' in the rating of the best because of its high keeping quality. Most often, this variety can be found in Europe, but recently it is gaining popularity among Russian gardeners.

Advantages

• not capricious in leaving;
• fruits are stored for a long time;
• decoration of the site.

disadvantages

• hard to get in Russia.

Pink lemonade

Rating: 4.6

Perhaps, 'Pink Lemonade' is the most unusual variety. It was opened quite recently, in 2009. It gained its popularity due to its bright color. Unlike all other varieties of 'classic' blueberries, its berries are pink-red in color. The taste of the fruit is also slightly different, with a pronounced sourness. The bush itself is tall and reaches 2.5 m in height. Amateur gardeners note that such a plant can serve as a pollinator for other blueberry varieties. This will improve the quality of the berries and increase their quantity.

The new variety has little confidence in our experts, so it is recommended to plant it for decorative purposes. In addition, it will not give a large harvest of blueberries: a maximum of 4 kg per plant. In the spring during the flowering period, the plant attracts attention with delicate white-pink flowers, in the summer – with bright berries. In autumn, the leaves first take on a yellow tint, gradually turning into a pale orange. Due to its unusual decorative properties, we have included 'Pink Lemonade' in the rating of the best blueberry varieties.

Advantages

• can be used as decoration;
• unusual color and taste;
• pollinates other blueberry varieties;

disadvantages

• few berries.

Darrow

Rating: 4.5

'Darrow' will be able to please gardeners with its berries for the third year after planting. Bushes of medium height with age will become more spreading, but while young, they will take up little space on the site. The variety was included by our experts in the rating of the best blueberry varieties due to its high productivity. Resistance to frost and disease is also quite high. The only requirement for obtaining a large number of berries is a bright place and the presence of a pollinating bush of another blueberry variety.

If you follow the rules of care, the fruits will grow large: up to 2 cm in diameter. From one bush it will be possible to collect from 5 to 8 kg of blueberries. The berries are dense, juicy, sweet and aromatic, the waxy coating is poorly expressed. Most often it is used for fresh consumption and as a decoration for confectionery products.

Advantages

• productive variety;
• unpretentious;
• frost-resistant;
• tasty large berries.

disadvantages

• need a pollinator bush.

The best late varieties of blueberries

Nelson

Rating: 5.0

Late berry is valued among gardeners as well as early one. The choice of a late variety should be approached responsibly in order to enjoy the last taste of summer. One of these blueberry varieties is 'Nelson'. Our experts included it in this rating for its ability to quickly adapt to climatic conditions and high frost resistance. The variety, originally from northern Canada, will perfectly take root in the northern regions of Russia.

Blueberry bushes are medium-sized, compact. The berries begin to ripen in the second half of August. During the season, if the correct care path is chosen, you can collect from 6 to 8 kg of blueberries from one bush. The fruits are large, about 2 cm in diameter, have a light blue color with a slight bloom. Not everyone will like the taste, because there are light wine notes.

Advantages

• frost resistance;
• the ability to adapt to the climate;
• large berries;
• original taste.

disadvantages

• not found.

Elizabeth

Rating: 4.9

Named after the 'progenitor' of the garden blueberry, it is arguably the most popular cultivar among many gardeners and experts. 'Elizabeth' is appreciated for its persistent alluring aroma and excellent taste, which is why we decided to include her in the rating of the best blueberry varieties. The berries are firm, juicy, large and sweet. They do not ripen at the same time, so there is a chance to stretch the pleasure right until the end of summer days. When picking, you should be careful not to pick unripe berries, although they grow in loose bunches.

The bush grows straight, but spreading, rather tall. The yield, unlike other blueberry varieties, is small: 4-6 kg per plant. The berries are large, deep blue, easy to transport. 'Elizabeth' reproduces by lignified cuttings very quickly, it takes root well almost everywhere, except for sand. Ideally, if the soil contains peat. High frost resistance.

Advantages

• multiplies rapidly;
• does not ripen at the same time;
• large fruits;
• easy to assemble;
• excellent taste.

disadvantages

• picky about the ground;
• average yield.

Elliot

Rating: 4.8

Blueberry 'Elliot', despite the fact that it was bred for a long time, became known only in the late 70s. The variety is not picky about watering and soil, it is trouble-free in care, but very capricious to climatic conditions. The climate should be dry, warm, the plant is unlikely to be able to survive severe frosts. Our experts have selected it as one of the best varieties because of its ideal characteristics for breeding in the southern regions.

The berries can hardly be called large: the maximum diameter will hardly reach 1.5 cm. Ripe fruits crumble, but do not crack. The taste of this variety also depends on the weather conditions. With a lot of rain, bitterness appears. The yield is above average – up to 8 kg. Gardeners appreciate this blueberry for its abundant anthocyanin. It reduces inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and normalizes the natural protective functions of the intestines.

Advantages

• suitable for the south;
• anthocyanin in large quantities.

disadvantages

• demanding on the climate;
• shedding berries.

Berkeley

Rating: 4.7

Good but not the most productive variety. It can be used for both personal and commercial purposes, but with short transportation. Our experts have included the Berkeley blueberry in the rating of the best due to its unpretentiousness and frost resistance. The berries ripen in the second half of August. The big and main disadvantage of this variety is the irregularity of fruit formation.

The bushes are tall, they can reach 2.2 m. The blueberries are medium in size and have no frills. Overripe berries do not crack, but fall off. Judging by the reviews of gardeners, this is a great option for those who rarely appear in the garden and are very limited in the time of caring for plants.

Advantages

• frost resistance;
• easy to clean;
• the fruits do not crack.

disadvantages

• only short transportation;
• irregular fruiting.

Brigitte Blue

Rating: 4.6

The late variety 'Brigitte Blue' is not yet widely known in Russia, but is gradually gaining popularity. Tall bushes not only bear large, juicy and fragrant fruits, but also serve as a decoration for the site during the growing season. The first big blueberry harvest, unlike other varieties, can only be harvested in the 4th year after planting. As for the planting site, our experts recommend choosing sunny areas with moist soil.

The berries ripen evenly and have the highest characteristics: they tolerate the transportation process perfectly, overripe berries do not crack or crumble, so we have included the variety in the rating of the best. All fruits grow almost the same size (up to 1.5 cm in diameter), have a beautiful blue tint. The pulp is firm, the taste is sweet with hints of sourness. An excellent option for the middle lane and southern regions.

Advantages

• transportability;
• uniform ripening;
• berries do not crack, do not crumble.

disadvantages

• wait a long time for the harvest.

Jersey

Rating: 4.5

One of the oldest and most proven blueberry varieties. Experts attribute it to pollinating plants. This means that it can be planted with a different variety of bush, while the 'Jersey' is itself pollinated. Simply put, by planting this variety, you can kill two birds with one stone: pollinate earlier varieties, and then harvest from this bush in mid-August.

The plant does not require special care and is unpretentious to the type of soil, it will take root well in any region. The variety is capable of bearing fruit even in unfavorable years for gardeners. Due to this feature, it has been selected for the ranking of the best varieties. Frost and disease resistance is above average. The berries are medium in size, round, firm, light blue in color with an appetizing aroma and excellent taste. Suitable both for fresh consumption and for preparations, baked goods, drinks. Perfectly adapted to freezing. During the season, you can collect from 4 to 6 kg of blueberries from a bush.

Advantages

• pollinator variety;
• unpretentious;
• regular harvest;
• suitable for freezing and cooking;
• resistance to frost and disease.

disadvantages

• not found.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.