Best Mulch for Blueberries Review & Buying Guide (That Works)

For effortless growth Blueberries require acidic, well-drained soil and 4-6 inches mulch over the roots. In order to become successful in growing, you will require to pick the best mulch for Blueberries.

Mulch will aid to prevent weeds, correct the soil temperature, and keep a proper level of soil moisture. From the ancient age, peoples uses wood-based materials as mulches.

Did you know that blueberries are considered the king of antioxidant fruits? Well, now you do. They are filled with a great number of nutrients and helps an individual’s ability to fight aging and cancer. 

If you are a landscaper and are considering to grow blueberries indoor or out, you will find the process quite easy. All you need is the best mulch for growing blueberry bushes. So here we are with our review with some of the top quality mulches that you can find online.

What is the Best Mulch for Blueberry Bushes in Garden?

In ancient times, blueberries were gathered from a bush growing in deep in the wilderness. Ever since people started growing blueberries domestically, it needed certain tweaks and secrete for growing the best tasting blueberries. Hence scientists discovered the role of mulches in growing blueberries.

Blueberries do grow best in an acidic and well-drained soil that is completely free from weed. Soil pH between 4 to 5 is optimum for growing blueberries that grow and tastes best. If the soil root zone is too wet, it will suffer a higher pH level. 

You should choose a mulch that offers greater moisture retentions so that the root zone doesn’t need to get flooded with excess water. Additionally, mulching helps to bring down root growth in certain types of shrubs. This includes blueberries as well.

As there are plenty of options available for mulches, the perfect one would be depending on the plant you are trying to grow. The common type of mulches includes pea gravel, bark chips, sawdust, peat moss, and leaves. Although their task is quite the same, some are particularly more effective for a specific shrub that you can grow.

Look for a mulch that has a strong shell as they tend to be durable. Mulches that have a stronger outer shell like the pine or bark chips provide extra protection against external conditions. Also, they tend not to get washed out by excessive watering or heavy airflow.

Now,

What Kind of Mulch is Best for Blueberries?

Now that you know what determines the selection of blueberries, let me discuss some types of mulches that work well for blueberries. 

• Acidic mulch for blueberries

Pine needles, pine bark, and peat moss have a higher pH level of 3.5 to 4.5 and is considered acidic mulch. Blueberries often require acidic soil and you need to apply fertilizer to keep the level at a minimum. However, you should use an acidic mulch to a certain extent to avoid making the soil too much acidic.

• Bark as mulch

While growing blueberries outdoor in your garden, barks are the best kind of mulch that you can use for your plant. They efficiently retain moisture in the soil and will provide you with greater control of weed growth. The bark mulch blocks weed emergence so that they don’t absorb the necessary nutrients that are needed for your blueberry plant.

• Cedar mulch

About 2 to 4 inches of mulch is often enough for blueberries as they have shallow and dense roots. Though there is plenty of great option to be used as mulch other than cedar, dead cedar often provides greater benefits for your blueberries. This includes enhanced weed control, retention of moisture, and temperature regulation of soil.

• Pine bark mulch

Pine bark is a perfect match for growing blueberries and strawberries. The exact level of pH that blueberries require to grow is in pine bark. As blueberries don’t enjoy heavy soil, pine bark will ensure that your soil is loose enough by retaining moisture effectively. Paired with a decent fertilizer, your blueberry plant will be growing and thriving in no time.

• Wood Chips

While choosing mulch for your blueberry, you should focus on whether the mulch is noose enough for the water to reach the root of your plant. In this case, wood mulches such as pine needle and bark one do quite a great job as mulches. Although, you should keep in mind that dyed mulches need to be avoided at all costs as well as synthetic and black plastic ones.

• Peat moss 

So far, you must have figured out that blueberries do enjoy acidic soils. And guess which kind of mulch provide you soil with extra acidic supplements? Peat moss of course. You must incorporate peat moss with blueberries in any way. Be it from fertilizer or mulches.

You can even mix peat moss with certain types of bark mulches to prepare an effective compost. Though you should avoid using redwood or cedar with peat moss.

• Sawdust mulch 

Among other types, this one is probably the best type of mulch that you can use for your blueberry plant. Similar to peat moss, sawdust is also an acidic and probably better performer for acid-loving shrubs such as blueberries and rhododendrons.

Peat moss can be quite expensive and if you are on a budget, sawdust is the best economic choice for you to be used as mulches.

Best Mulch for Blueberries Review 

Here, I have reviewed the top quality mulches that you can use to grow blueberries bushes in your garden. To pick the best ones, I have prioritized the proven materials for blueberries mulching. Also, in this section, you will find step by step guide on how to apply mulches perfectly.

1. Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss, 10 Quarts Ensure Top Class Mulching for Blueberries 

The 15503 Canadian Sphagnum by Hoffman is a premium grade peat moss that is organic down to 99.8%. While growing blueberries, you will be needing a peat moss that can retain water and nutrients effectively. And this is where this Canadian peat moss performs like a champ. 

Another great thing about this peat moss is that it can be used with perlite and vermiculite to increase then nutrients supplement further and promote greater health for your blueberries.

While preparing mulches and soil to be used with your blueberry plant, you often need to prepare a perfect blend so that it gets the optimum growing environment that it needs. This includes preparing the soil and moisturizing it for the plant to soak up needed moisture. 

With the help of this product however, you won’t be needing to soak up the blend as it comes moist and is ready to use.

Key Features

• Premium grade Canadian peat moss blend.
• 99.8% organic and performs amazingly for horticultural activities.
• Boosts up soil moisture and nutrients retention.
• Performs best if mixed with perlite and custom soil blends.
• Requires no soaking and is completely ready to use.

2. 20 Year Weed Barrier Landscape Fabric, 4-Feet – Easy To Install Mulching, Cost-Effective

You will rarely find gardening brands to claim that their product will last for decades. Then there is Dewitt who claims that their Pro Fabric will last for 20 years without breaking a sweat. So we had to include their product on our top list and talk about what makes this product unique.

Now, most weed barriers out there will give you a plastic-like vibe. This one, however, is completely made of plastic and you will find stapling them quite effortlessly. The only downside is that there seems to be no printed pointer for measurement so you have to do the job of straightening the edges.

The problem with using fibers to be used as a weed barrier is that sometimes you will find it difficult to cut into a specific shape. Also, the materials seem heavier and you might have to apply more energy in maneuvering them. However, this fabric comes light enough to maneuver and thing enough for you to cut specific shapes to be used as a weed barrier.

Key Features

• Contains no chemicals and effectively controls weed growth.
• Can be used for various purpose such as patios, walkways, and retaining wall.
• Amazing durability makes it lasts for decades.
• Works great for reducing soil erosion.

3. Seeding Mulch with Tack – Biodegradable Organic Processed Straw for Organic Blueberries 

Unlike most of the processed straw, this one by EZ-Straw features TACKIFIER. If you have soil that fails to stick together and is muddy, you will find this feature quite useful. This feature’s added tackiness to your soil so that it gets better bonding which in term keeps the seed from getting washed out by the heavy wind.

Another advantage of having STRAW is that it offers extra protection for the seed of your plant. Apart from seed getting washed-out by a heavy wind of watering, they might also suffer damages from birds and similar types of animals. Thankfully, this Organic straw will add much-needed fortification for your seed.

The straw is completely biodegradable and won’t tamper with the quality of your soil. Once your seed has done growing, it will degrade automatically while keeping your soil condition just like it was before applying the straw. 

You are bound to get an improved result from this straw as it boosts up germination, requires less frequent watering, and will help to keep your blueberries seed 99% weed-free.

Key Features

• The processed straw that features Tackifier.
• Enhanced protection for your seed from external harms.
• Amazing results as it boosts germination and increases water retention of your soil.
• The biodegradable straw which will not pose any harm to your soil or soil condition.

4. Organic Sphagnum Peat Moss for Perfect Mulching

The perfect plant has been known for its quality indoor and outdoor gardening products and the Organic Sphagnum Peat Moss is no exception. It performs remarkably well for both indoor and outdoor gardening purposes and trusts us when we say, it won’t disappoint you.

This high absorbency peat moss retains a huge amount of water which is highly effective for growing shrubs like blueberry. Blueberry being a deciduous perennial shrub requires a great amount of moisture and nutrients to grow and thrive. This is where you will find this peat moss’s high retention capability beneficial.

Now shrubs are oftentimes vulnerable and are likely to get affected by bug attacks. Most of the time these infestations spread like wildfire and will damage your entire plant in no time, wasting your valuable time and energy that you invested in bringing that up. 

Thankfully, this organic sphagnum peat moss is Sterile and will prevent bugs and bacteria from attacking your precious blueberry plant. The presentation is always better than the defense.

Key Features

• Great absorbency offers greater water and nutrients absorption.
• Prevents bacterial infestation and keeps plants from bug assaults.
• Soil additive and remarkably improves the quality of your pot soil.
• Can be used for both indoor and outdoor growing activities. 

5. Longleaf Pine Straw Roll for Ideal Blueberry Mulching for Your Money

Now this one is an amazing value for the price you pay. This premium longleaf pine straw is about 14 inches in length and holds the least amount of debris compared to the straw that you will find online at this price point. The product undergoes a heavy cleaning procedure to ensure you get top of the mark straw to be used for your plant.

As for the durability of this pine straw, Colored Pine Straw applies unique pigment to color it up to add better protection from UV rays that might make the straw bleached out over time. 

Not only the coloring looks better on your garden and/or yard it also does an amazing job in reducing weed growth. Just the type of straw you will be needing while growing blueberries.

The product is completely eco-friendly and is safe for your family and pets. The coloring pigment used in this straw is non-toxic and won’t pose any harm whatsoever. This product is a great alternative for wood mulches and will perform almost better than them.

Key Features

• Premium pine straw that provides value over the price of your pay.
• Durable longleaf straw that will support your blueberry plant throughout the year.
• The eco-friendly straw that uses no toxic materials and is family and pet friendly.

6. 100% Natural Cedar Chips Mulch For Excellent Growing

Now, this all-natural Cedar Chips is a beast in retaining moisture for your plants. Whether you choose to use it in indoor or outdoor gardening activities, you will find a satisfying result in both scenarios. It is one of the best mulch for blueberries.

Apart from being used as a mulch, they work well as air fresheners. It is possible because the subtle natural scent of cedar is elegant to smell. Which makes it one of the finest mulch to be used to grow blueberries with.

Paired with hanging planters these mulch looks well. You can also use this in animal bedding or litter to absorb the displeasing odors and keep your indoor fresh with clean breathable air.

Key Features

• All-natural Cedar mulch that works for both indoor and outdoor activities.
• Can be used as air freshener thanks to its natural Cedar smell.
• Works best with hanging planters.

7. Pine Bark Mulch, 100% Natural Pine Bark Mulch For Blueberries 

If you are involved in gardening activities and spend a significant amount of time in such activities, you will find this mulch an amazing purchase. This high-quality mulch works remarkably well in several gardening projects that you might have on your bucket list. The unique features of this mulch make it ideal for blueberries.

While applying this mulch, you will find the process quite effortless thanks to its easy pouring and cleaning capabilities. Besides being used for growing various types of plants, you can also use it in terrariums. Even in indoor gardening activities, this mulch will yield a greater result.

Rio Hamza Trading has done amazing research in developing this mulch as each batch is created with great care and is fan dried. Which in term helps to curb as much moisture as possible and is deemed important for your plant.

You can use this organic mulch for various sets of activities such as crafts, ground cover for house plants, and plenty more besides gardening.

Key Features

• Premium quality pine mulch that works splendidly for gardening projects.
• Fine-tuned mulch that curbs a great deal of moisture.
• 100% organic and can be used for a wide set of activities.

8. Blommer Cocoa Shell Mulch, 2 Cubic Feet 

As the wine gets better with age, so does the BLCH001 Blommer by National Cocoa Shell. Unlike most mulches that wash out while being exposed to sunlight for an extended period, this one will remain intact while darkening as it ages. Thanks to the cocoa bean which promotes a strong outer shell of the mulch.

About one inch deep of this mulch will be sufficient enough to keep your blueberry plant moisturized and protect it from scorching heat. As one bag of this is enough to be used for 24 square feet, you will have plenty to store away to be used for later activities. The mulch will remain intact in the sealable bag and won’t go soggy.

The only downside of this mulch will be put on the action if you have pets running around your house. Coco is not good for pets, especially dogs, and might be toxic for them. The chocolaty aroma, however, smells amazing and you will grow fond of it.

Key Features

• Durable mulch that will last for quite a while.
• Looks and smells amazing just like aromatic dark chocolate.
• Less likely to bleach out.
• Has a strong shell that will provide your plant with needed moisture.
• Greatly helps in suppressing weeds.

9. Long Needle Pine Straw -Covers 3200 Sqft

As a landscaper, you will be needing the best looking gardening materials that just add up to the aesthetic beauty of your garden. While it heavily depends on the type of plant you are growing, pine straw can be a great addition in your landscaping. Especially this Long Needle Pine Straw by USA Pinestraw.

If you are facing abnormal weed growth from your plant, this straw will be happy to help you. With the assistance of this pine straw, you will be having reduced weed growth thanks to this straw’s weed suppression capability.

The straw is quite effortless to install as well and performs excellently while planting beds and gardens. You will find the amazing result with the use of this product in no time.

Key Features

• Adds up to the beauty of your garden and landscape projects.
• Greatly reduce weed growth by suppressing it.
• Effortless to install out of the box.
• Performs excellently in bedding and gardening activities.

10. Mixed Hardwood SAWDUST, CHEMICAL FREE 

Compared to mulches and straws, sawdust comes as natural as possible. Dry, natural, and free of debris, this Hardwood Sawdust works pretty well as an alternative for mulches and straws. If you are considering growing blueberries indoor, you will find this sawdust quite a perfect pair.

Sawdust is biodegradable which clears up to the debate about whether it is toxic or not while being used as mulch. The only downside might be that sawdust while getting degraded draws a small amount of nitrogen from the soil, leaving less for your plants. However, the number is quite low and won’t pose greater harm.

Even while using this sawdust as an alternative to mulch, you should take some precautions to avoid damage to your plants in the long run. Doing so might save you a lot of time and trouble. Better safe than sorry eh?

Key Features

• A good alternative for mulches and straw.
• Biodegradable sawdust that performs amazingly as an alternate to mulch.
• Organic sawdust that includes no toxic ingredients.

How to Apply Mulch on Blueberry Roots?

Let’s say you have found the perfect type of mulch for your blueberries. How will you apply it though? Worry not as we have just the right steps to ease up your effort.

Step-1: Always pick an organic type of mulch to be used as mulches. Here you can go for sawdust and wood chips as they are your best bet.

Step-2: You should have enough mulches to cover up about 4 to 6 inches deep. This is necessary because mulches tend to deteriorate and deteriorating mulches release organic materials in the soil which is beneficial for blueberries. You must replenish mulches when it doctorates down to a certain level. 

Step-3: You need to apply a significant amount of fertilizer if you have used composted sawdust in the planting hole of your blueberry plant.

Step-4: You should consider using raised beds as they tend to increase the acceptability of mulches. Increased beds along with a sufficient amount of mulches ensure amazing drainage and moisture retention at the same time. Perfect for growing blueberries effectively.

How to Mulch Blueberries for Winter?

Mulching blueberries during winter is not a good idea as it blocks the soil to get needed warmth from the sun. The only reason you should use mulches during winter is to keep the temperature at a steady level so that new growth is not triggered during the brief warm spell. When the shivering cold hits, the newly growing branches are likely to suffer.

Mulching blueberries during winter also helps to conserve moisture that is already in the soil.

The procedure of mulching blueberries is quite the same as the way you would be mulching in any season. In winter, however, use loose mulches and be sure to completely remove mulches that were applied previously.

Frequently Asked Question About Blueberries Mulching:

Choosing & applying mulching are simple processes. However, peoples often have different types of questions on this matter. Here is some common question regarding this topic followed by experts suggestion.

• Does the mulch type affects blueberry?

Yes, it does. There are heavy and loose mulches and you should use the loose one for better water percolation. Besides, the rapid change of temperature will change the soil moisture too fast. 

Mulch aids in controlling the pH level, prevent soil overheating, and keeping uniform soil moisture. 

The types of material will affect growth. As they will be responsible to maintain things I have mentioned above.

• How thick should be the spread of the mulch?

About 4 to 6 inches of mulch should be enough around your blueberry plant. The recommended mulches include pine straw,  pine bark, or sawdust. 

Don’t overt mulch! it will be harmful.

• How often should I apply mulches?

 You should apply mulches once a year. The spring is the best time to apply fresh mulch on roots. However, if you find out the existing mulch is rotten or not able to cover the plant’s roots, you should apply mulches immediately. 

• What is the best time to apply mulch?

IAs a gardener, you will agree that the mulching should be applied when necessary. Since the blueberry bushes don’t like sudden temperature change, too much cold and warmth. Therefore, you need to apply mulch to save your plants.

Mid- to late spring is the perfect time to loosen up previously applied mulches and apply new layers of fresh ones.

However, farmers also tend to mulch in winter. It will help your blueberries to survive in cold and snow.

• Can I use sawdust as mulches for blueberry?

Sawdust is the best type of mulches to be used for blueberries. However, they are a bit costly than others. Besides, it should be aged one year to use. 

Final Verdicts 

So what’s stopping you from growing blueberries? Blueberries are one of the healthiest fruits for you to have and they also increase the visual aesthetic of your home garden. Growing one can be quite simple if you follow the perfect set of decisions. Such as choosing the best mulch for blueberries.

At this point, you should have a pretty clear idea about a certain type of mulches, when to mulch, and what procedure you need to follow to mulch effectively. Just be sure to mulch you blueberry once a year and replenish when you feel like they are detonating and you will be all set.