Seasonal Variation in Leaf Nutrient Concentration of Northern Highbush Blueberry Cultivars Grown in Conventional and Organic Production Systems

Summary

This field study compared leaf and fruit nutrient concentrations in six northern highbush blueberry cultivars grown under conventional and certified organic management over two seasons. Cultivar significantly influenced most fruit nutrients and leaf nutrient patterns throughout the growing season, though the temporal trajectory of leaf nutrient concentration remained relatively consistent between management systems. Mulch type (organic amendment versus weed mat) affected soil pH and in turn leaf manganese and aluminium concentrations, suggesting management-driven indirect effects on nutrient availability.

Regional applicability

This research was conducted at United States sites and may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom blueberry production, which operates under different soil, climate and regulatory conditions. However, the methodological approach to seasonal nutrient monitoring and the documented cultivar differences in nutrient concentration and removal could inform UK horticultural practice, particularly for nutrient budgeting and organic certification requirements.

Key measures

Leaf nutrient concentrations (N, P, K, Mn, Al and others) sampled fortnightly April–October; fruit nutrient concentration at harvest; fruit yield; fruiting phenology; soil pH

Outcomes reported

The study measured seasonal variation in leaf nutrient concentrations (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, manganese, aluminium and others) across six blueberry cultivars at two production sites (conventional and organic) over two years, and quantified nutrient removal in harvested fruit. Cultivar, site, and year all significantly affected leaf nutrient concentrations, with management practices (mulch type) influencing soil pH and associated nutrient availability.

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