DESCRIPTION

Duke is an extremely prolific and intensively growing variety of highbush blueberry. The bush can grow up to 180 cm, is loose in shape with rigid branches. Harvest is regular and abundant. The plant reaches harvest maturity in the second half of July. Berries are medium to large in size, flattened, juicy, with bittersweet, very unique taste. The Duke variety preserves well in transport and is suitable for mechanical harvesting.The shrub is best planted in a sunny position. The blueberry can be grown both in peat and moderately fertile soil, and even poorer quality soil, that should be kept moist and airy at all times. The optimum pH should be in the range of 3,5-4,8.

ADVICES

In order to maintain a healthy plant, from the moment of planting the shrub, up to 4 years, it is recommended to perform sanitation pruning by cutting back or removing shoots that are unhealthy, weak, mechanically damaged, or frostbitten. Thinning to open up light channels and revitalise the plant should begin from the fifth year. It is recommended to cut back and remove the oldest stems or overcrowded shoots. The most suitable period for pruning is at the end of winter and the beginning of spring, when there are no severe frosts. You can then recognize frostbitten-shoots and visible flower buds which makes it easier to decide how much to prune. Use nitrogen fertilizer in three doses - from early May to mid-June. First apply directly after the shrub flowers, and then at the end of the fruiting period. Potassium fertilizers, phosphorus, and magnesium should be used in the autumn. Blueberries require constant irrigation. The plant is resistant to frost, but in the first year new seedlings should be protected, covering with a layer of mulch for winter. This variety requires a pollinator.