Blueberry Bush "Woodard" 3 Gallon

Blueberry Bush ‘Woodard’ (3 Gallon) – Sweet, Southern Flavor Straight from the Garden
Bring a taste of homegrown goodness to your backyard with the ‘Woodard’ Blueberry Bush, a Southern favorite known for its large, sweet berries and early-season harvest. This dependable rabbiteye variety is perfect for gardeners who want a productive, low-maintenance fruit bush that thrives in the Southeast.

A Bit of History:
Native to the southeastern United States, rabbiteye blueberries (Vaccinium ashei) have long been a staple in Southern gardens. The ‘Woodard’ variety was developed in Georgia for its early ripening, delicious flavor, and adaptability to our warm climate. It’s a wonderful pick for families looking to enjoy fresh berries straight from the bush—and maybe a pie or two.

Where It Grows Best:
‘Woodard’ loves the full sun and performs best in well-drained, acidic soil. It’s ideal for planting in garden beds, edible landscapes, or even large containers. As a rabbiteye variety, it’s especially well-suited for growers in Zones 7–9 and is known for its heat tolerance and strong disease resistance.

How to Care for ‘Woodard’ Blueberry Bush:

• Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)

• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, especially during fruiting

• Soil: Acidic, well-draining soil (pH 4.5–5.5 is ideal)

• Fertilizer: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and again after harvest

• Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove weak or dead branches and encourage healthy new growth

• Pollination: While ‘Woodard’ is partially self-pollinating, planting it alongside another rabbiteye variety (like ‘Brightwell’ or ‘Tifblue’) will increase yield

Mature Size: 4–6 feet tall and wide
Harvest Time: Early summer (typically May–June in the South)

Perfect Companion Plants:
For healthy growth and maximum berry production, consider pairing ‘Woodard’ with:

• Brightwell or Tifblue Blueberries for cross-pollination

• Azaleas or Camellias (also acid-lovers) for a beautiful, functional border

• Strawberries or Herbs nearby for a full edible garden experience

• Pine needle mulch to help maintain soil acidity

Whether you're starting a home orchard or just want a few delicious, sun-kissed berries for snacking, the ‘Woodard’ Blueberry Bush is a sweet, easy choice for Southern gardeners.