Effect of soil calcium applications on blueberry yield and quality

Abstract

The response of mature highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L. cv 'Jersey') to soil applied Ca was studied for five years. The study site was a mature field in southwest Michigan with a relatively low soil pH (4.2) and Ca content (85 ppm). The treatments were: (1) non-treated control; (2) 1,100 kg/ha calcitic limestone; and (3) 550 kg/ha gypsum (calcium sulfate). Lime and gypsum were spread in a 5 ft wide band under the plants in May of 1996, 1997, 1999, and 2000. Lime, and to a lesser extent gypsum, increased soil pH and Ca levels, but had inconsistent affects on Ca levels in leaves and fruit. No treatment affected berry yield or size (1999-2001), firmness (1996-2001) or fruit rot incidence (2001). © 2004 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.