Effect of Soil Calcium Applications on Blueberry Yield and Quality

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SUMMARY 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).