Vaccinium corymbosum 'Biloxi' (Highbush Blueberry)

Common Name: Biloxi Blueberry; Highbush Blueberry

Scientific Name: Vaccinium corymbosum 'Biloxi'

Plant Family: Ericaceae

Lifecycle: Perennial

The Biloxi Blueberry, a cultivar of the Highbush Blueberry, is prized for thriving in warmer climates where traditional northern blueberries struggle. When growing Vaccinium corymbosum 'Biloxi' in Zone 8a, you benefit from its low chilling-hour requirement and early harvests. These berries are sweet, antioxidant-rich, and make an excellent addition to food forests, berry hedges, or container gardens.

For in-depth guides and curated tools — including a trusted free PDF on Highbush Blueberry cultivation — be sure to check out our Recommended Books & Resources below.

Plant Profile

Characteristic	Information
Climate Suitability	USDA Zones 7–10; Köppen Csa (Mediterranean), Cfa (humid subtropical)
Sun / Shade Needs	Full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily)
Watering Needs	Moderate; prefers consistent moisture, mulch helps retain water
Soil Preferences	Acidic (pH 4.5–5.5), sandy loam, rich in organic matter, well-drained
Spacing & Height	1.2–1.5 m spacing; height 1.5–1.8 m (5–6 ft)
Propagation Method(s)	Softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, or tissue culture
Planting Timeline	Best planted in late winter to early spring (Feb–Mar in Zone 8a)
Companion Plants	Acid-loving plants: azalea, rhododendron, cranberry, heather, ferns
Edible / Medicinal / Ecological Uses	Fresh eating, jams, jellies, frozen storage, dried preserves, wildlife food
Pest / Disease Considerations	Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil; watch for birds and aphids
Pruning / Harvest Notes	Prune annually to encourage airflow; harvest early- to mid-season (May–June)

Quick Plant Reference

• Care Level: Moderate

• Optimal Sunlight: Full sun

• Water Needs: Consistent, moderate moisture

• Mature Size: 1.5–1.8 m (5–6 ft) tall; 1.2 m (4 ft) spread

• Soil Type: Acidic, sandy loam, well-drained

• Humidity: Medium

• Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets

• Beneficial Pollinators: Bees, bumblebees, hoverflies

• Health Benefits: High in antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber

• Chilling Hours: Low requirement (150–300 hours)

• Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile but higher yield with cross-pollination (e.g., Legacy, Gupton)

Our Vaccinium corymbosum 'Biloxi' Application @ Tough Kraut

We planted our first Biloxi Blueberry in March 2023 at the corner of “Blueberry Alley,” tucked below a tall pine alongside ‘Legacy,’ ‘Gupton,’ and one mystery blueberry. The second Biloxi Blueberry sits by the main path near our elevated IBC water tank structure. Although originally mislabeled by the nursery as Vaccinium myrtillus, we quickly discovered they were Highbush Blueberries. Both plants are still young, but we’re hopeful for a fruitful harvest with cross-pollination and some patience.

Step-by-Step Growing Guide

Note: Blueberries can be picky about soil pH and waterlogging. Troubleshooting often comes down to these basics, so keep your soil acidic and your drainage strong.

1. Choose the Right Site

Select a full-sun location with some protection from strong winds.

2. Prepare the Soil

Test and amend soil to a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Add peat moss, pine needles, or sulfur as needed.

3. Plant the Shrub

Plant in late winter or early spring, ensuring roots are spread evenly and soil is firm but not compacted.

4. Water Consistently

Blueberries thrive on regular moisture; use mulch to retain water and regulate soil temperature.

5. Ensure Proper Pollination

Though Biloxi is self-fertile, pair it with cultivars like ‘Legacy’ or ‘Gupton’ for larger yields.

6. Prune Annually

Thin branches in late winter to improve airflow and direct energy into berry production.

7. Manage Pests and Diseases

Protect from birds with netting and avoid root rot by ensuring good drainage.

8. Harvest and Store

Harvest berries when they turn deep blue and detach easily; refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for longer storage.

9. Note

If your Vaccinium corymbosum 'Biloxi' looks yellow, check soil pH — iron deficiency is a common FAQ issue in alkaline soils.

Kraut Crew Insight

Our Biloxi Blueberry has been slower than its ‘Legacy’ neighbor, but we see signs of steady growth. It’s teaching us patience — a recurring theme on this homestead. We’ll keep a close eye on soil acidity and water levels while letting nature take its course.

Photos

March 28, 2023

March 28, 2023 - #1

March 28, 2023 - #2

August 22, 2025 - #1

August 22, 2025 - #1

August 22, 2025 - #2

Herman’s Tough Kraut Field Notes: Solving Biloxi Blueberry Cultivation Challenges

When it comes to Biloxi Blueberries, most troubleshooting and FAQ questions circle back to soil acidity, water consistency, and pollination. We’ve had our share of lessons: mislabeled plants, patchy growth near pines, and the challenge of balancing water with sandy Portuguese soil.

Q: Why are my Biloxi Blueberry leaves turning yellow?

A: This usually indicates iron deficiency caused by soil that isn’t acidic enough. Adjust pH with elemental sulfur or add pine mulch.

Q: Can Biloxi Blueberry handle Mediterranean summers?

A: Yes, but it requires mulching and consistent watering. In Zone 8a, heat stress is real — shade cloth in peak summer can help.

Q: Do Biloxi Blueberries need another variety to fruit?

A: They’re self-fertile, but yields improve significantly when cross-pollinated with compatible varieties like ‘Legacy.’

Q: My Biloxi Blueberry is growing slowly compared to other varieties. Why?

A: Biloxi is known to be a more compact, slower grower. Don’t panic — it often puts more energy into root establishment the first few years.

Q: Should I prune in the first year?

A: Yes, lightly. Remove weak or crossing branches, but don’t overdo it — the first two years are about building strong roots.

Q: How should I prune an older Biloxi Blueberry bush?

A: After about 4–5 years, remove a few of the oldest canes at ground level each winter to stimulate vigorous new shoots. Maintain a balance of young and middle-aged canes for the best yields.

Q: What’s the best way to propagate Biloxi Blueberries?

A: Use softwood cuttings in late spring or hardwood cuttings in winter. Layering works too, though slower. Keep cuttings in an acidic medium and expect several months before strong rooting.

Recommended Books & Resources

Books

• The Highbush Blueberry and Its Management by Robert E. Gough

  An in-depth, science-backed guide focused on highbush blueberry cultivation, including Southern cultivars like ‘Biloxi’, covering variety selection, pruning, and soil management.

• Grow the Best Blueberries by Vladimir G. Shutak & Robert E. Gough

  A practical, easy-to-follow handbook for home gardeners on planting, caring for, and harvesting southern highbush blueberries.

• Highbush Blueberry Production Guide by Cooperative Extension

  A trusted, research-based manual with comprehensive insights into blueberry production, soil prep, planting, and maintenance. Available as a free PDF download.

Resources

• Digital Soil pH Meter

  Keep your blueberry soil in the perfect acidic range (4.5–5.5) with precision pH checks.

• Hand-Forged Japanese Pruning Shears

  Premium shears for clean cane renewal cuts that last a lifetime.

• Protective Bird Net Cover

  Lightweight netting to protect ripening berries from birds and critters.

• Tough Kraut Resources

  Our curated collection of tools, soil amendments, and berry-care gear that we actually use on the homestead.

Entry last updated: 2025-08-22

This post is part of the Tough Kraut Plant Library, documenting what really grows on our off-grid homestead in Central Portugal.