Louisiana begins blueberry harvest
Water quality also is important in blueberry production, which keeps production in northwestern and southeastern regions of Louisiana, Johnson said.
“There’s a problem with high sodium levels in the central part of the state, and this is not good for blueberry production,” he said. “The blueberry is a plant that also does not like ‘wet feet,’ so good drainage is very important.”
With the proper conditions, it’s common for a blueberry plant to produce in excess of 20 years, Johnson said.
William Afton, LSU AgCenter agent in St. Tammany Parish, works with a number of blueberry growers, who use the crop to supplement their income.
“From the end of May through the month of June is pretty much the window for blueberry production in the state,” Afton said. “By July the crop is drying up.”
The ideal planting time for blueberries in Louisiana is during the cool months from October through March. The plants are cold-tolerant and are not affected by Louisiana winter weather.
Source: myarklamiss.com
