What is wrong with these blueberries?
This week was a trick question. Nothing is wrong with these blueberries! This is a variety called Pink Lemonade that when fully ripe, has a deep pink color. I don’t know if its because they are pink, but I personally think they taste slightly different than a blue blueberry. To me, they have somewhat of a tropical taste and are very sweet. Pink Lemonade is a cross between a highbush and rabbiteye that was released in 1996. They have very a low chill hour requirement (200-300), so they are only suitable for planting along the coast. Depending on how much cold we get, they may not produce a reliable crop each season. As a result, these should be planted only as a novelty rather than a commercial crop here in SC. Speaking of chill hours, check out our chill hour calculator on our weather station website to determine the number of chill hours your area receives each year.
This week’s question is from Zack Snipes, Coastal Fruit and Vegetable Extension Agent.
The South Carolina Grower 