Highbush Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum
Ericaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · native
Last updated
Highbush blueberry is a broadleaf shrub reaching 6-12 ft with multiple stems and erect form. It produces white or pinkish urn-shaped flowers in May and edible blue fruit. Native range spans Maine to Minnesota south to Florida.
Highbush blueberry is hardy in zones 3a-8b and prefers part shade with wet-tolerant, acidic soil (pH 4.7-7.5). Growth is moderate with medium maintenance; it requires moderate moisture and tolerates wet soil and anaerobic conditions. Over 43 diseases are documented, necessitating careful monitoring.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 3, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1070 to 1180.6 GDD₃₂. Highbush Blueberry has reached 'bud break' (1068 GDD₃₂) and is approaching 'flower buds visible', predicted around Apr 11.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 3, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,181 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 91 |
| Seattle / UW | 1,171 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 101 |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,111 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 161 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,106 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 166 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,101 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 171 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,075 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 197 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,070 | 'Bud break' | 'Flower buds visible' | 202 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ● 'Bud break' BBCH '07' NOW | 1068 | '' |
| ○ 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' NEXT | 1272 | '' est. Apr 11 (forecast) |
| 'Leaf emergence' BBCH '11' | 1538 | '' est. Apr 24 (avg) |
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? GDD₃₂ thresholds from USA National Phenology Network citizen science observations (WA+OR). Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 3, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Apr 19, 2026, then climate normals.