New Rabbiteye Blueberry Varieties: Sources for 'Vernon', 'Ochlockonee', 'Alapaha'

Superior Selections from UGA Breeding

The University of Georgia blueberry breeding program has released outstanding rabbiteye varieties with improved yield, fruit quality, and harvest timing. 'Vernon', 'Ochlockonee', and 'Alapaha' represent the latest advances for Southern growers.

Variety Highlights

• 'Vernon': Early ripening, large firm berries, excellent flavor
• 'Ochlockonee': Late season, very productive, extends harvest window
• 'Alapaha': Mid-season, consistent yields, good post-harvest quality

Purchasing Sources

1. Local garden centers – First call; many now stock UGA releases
2. Cornelius Farms – 912-284-0266 (specializes in blueberry plants)
3. Bottoms Nursery – 770-884-5661 (carries UGA varieties)

Planting Tip

Rabbiteye blueberries require cross-pollination. Plant at least two different varieties for fruit set. All three new releases are compatible pollinizers for each other and older varieties like 'Climax', 'Premier', and 'Tifblue'.