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| 'Premier' Blueberry Vaccinium ashei |
Nothing says summer quite like fresh blueberries, which can currently be seen ripening throughout the Edible Garden. These seasonal favorites thrive in well-drained, acid soils, and the Southeastern native rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei) tolerates the Georgia heat especially well. We have planted varieties that bloom around the same time near each other, including two rabbiteye cultivars, which encourages cross-pollination and consequently produces bigger berries. If left long enough to fully ripen, tart berries soon turn a deep blue that signals that they are sweet and ready to harvest. Rich in antioxidants and other beneficials, blueberries make a healthy addition to your summer meals. Our Garden Chef campers have been taking full advantage of their bounty, adding them to refreshing smoothies, topping yogurt parfaits, and enjoying them as a straightforward snack.
-Heather Rice, Programs Assistant
