Starting Blueberry Bushes from Cuttings: Timing and Technique

Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) root well from softwood cuttings taken in late spring to early summer.

Cutting Protocol

1. When: May–June, when new growth is 6+ inches, semi-firm.
2. Material: Terminal cuttings, 6 inches, strip lower leaves.
3. Hormone: IBA 0.1–0.3% powder or liquid.
4. Medium: 1:1 peat:perlite or fine bark:peat. Acidic (pH 4.5–5.0).
5. Environment: High humidity (plastic dome), bright indirect light, 70–75°F.
6. Rooting: 6–10 weeks. Tug test for resistance.
7. Aftercare: Harden off, pot in acidic mix, fertilize with acid-forming feed.

Critical Success Factors

• Acidic medium and water (pH 4.5–5.0) from day one.
• Don't let cuttings dry out—constant humidity is essential.
• Take cuttings from healthy, virus-free mother plants.

Alternative: Buy 2–3 Year Plants

Cuttings take 3–4 years to fruit. Nursery plants fruit in 1–2 years. For a home patch, buying is faster and more reliable.

If you love the variety and want more, cuttings work—just respect their acidity and humidity needs.