Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) SIERRA

Northern Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) 'Sierra'

High-yielding mid-early variety with large fruits, suitable for mechanical harvesting.

'Sierra' is an exceptional hybrid created by crossing four blueberry species, which gives it unique properties. It is valued for its robustness, vigorous growth, and ability to produce high yields of quality fruit. The berries are large, firm, and aromatic, making them ideal not only for fresh consumption but also for storage and freezing. Due to its durability and suitability for mechanical harvesting, it is popular among commercial growers, yet thanks to its decorative autumn foliage, it also finds a place in ornamental gardens.

Key Highlights:

• High productivity: A mature bush produces 5 – 7 kg of fruit.
• Large fruits: Aromatic, firm berries with excellent taste.
• Versatility: Suitable for both manual and mechanical harvesting.
• Ornamental value: Leaves turn orange to red in autumn.
• High frost resistance (down to -28 °C).

Origin and Registration

• Origin: USA (specific complex hybrid).

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Vigorous, upright to semi-upright, densely branched.
• Height: Reaches 170 – 200 cm at maturity.
• Habit: Sturdy bush that supports the fruit load well (tying may be suitable for heavy crops).
• Flowering: Blooms in late spring with small white to pinkish flowers that attract bees.

Fruit

• Size and Shape: Large, flattened-spherical berries.
• Color: Light to deep blue with an intense waxy bloom.
• Flavor: Predominantly sweet with lower acidity, aromatic, and very juicy.
• Usage: Fresh consumption, baking, desserts, freezing (holds shape well).

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost: High frost hardiness (down to -28 °C).
• Soil: Requires acidic (pH 3.5 – 4.5), aerated, and moist soil (ideally a mix of peat, bark, and needles).
• Location: Sunny (for better taste and coloring), sheltered from wind.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollination: The variety is self-fertile, but planting near another variety is recommended for higher yields and better fruit quality.
• Pruning: Moderate pruning is performed in late winter (removing old and dry wood).
• Spacing: 1.0 – 1.2 m apart in rows, 2.0 – 2.5 m between rows.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Mid-early. Ripens from mid-July to early August.
• Storage: Fruits are suitable for storage.