Blueberry, Northern Highbush 'Patriot' (2-year, 16-20 inch, 1-liter)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Patriot' is a Northern Highbush blueberry cultivar (Vaccinium corymbosum) that originated from a complex cross involving "Dixi," "Michigan LB-1," and "Earliblue." It was developed through a cooperative breeding effort between the USDA and the Maine Agriculture Experimental Station and was released in 1976. It was specifically bred for its exceptional winter hardiness, early ripening, and large fruit size, making it well-suited for colder climates.
• Patent Status: 'Patriot' Blueberry, released in 1976 by the USDA and Maine Agriculture Experimental Station, is not patented and is considered a public domain variety. It can be freely propagated and distributed.
• Berry Production: Produces very large, firm, slightly flattened, light blue berries with a good, sweet flavor. It is known for its consistently high yields, often producing abundant fruit even in challenging climates. The berries have good post-harvest handling potential.
• Ripening Time: 'Patriot' is an early-ripening Northern Highbush blueberry, typically maturing in late June to early July, making it one of the first highbush varieties to ripen in many regions.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Patriot' is a vigorous, upright-spreading shrub that can reach a mature height of 4 to 6 feet and a spread of 3 to 5 feet. It has attractive, dark green foliage that turns a beautiful reddish-orange in the fall, offering excellent autumn color. The stems have a distinctive reddish hue in the winter, adding further visual interest.
• Flowers: Produces large, white, bell-shaped flowers in clusters during the mid-spring. These flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
• Hardiness: 'Patriot' is exceptionally cold hardy, generally adapted to USDA Zones 3 through 7, making it an excellent choice for regions with harsh winters. It requires a moderate amount of chilling hours (around 800-1000).
• Pollination: While 'Patriot' is considered partially self-fertile, cross-pollination with another compatible Northern Highbush blueberry variety that blooms around the same time is recommended for optimal fruit set, larger berries, and increased yields. Suitable pollinizers include 'Northland', 'Reka', and 'Duke'.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal fruit production and the best fall color.
  • Soil: Prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 that is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
  • Watering: Needs consistent moisture, especially during establishment, flowering, and fruit development due to the large berry size.
  • Fertilizing: Benefits from fertilization in early spring with an acid-forming fertilizer specifically formulated for blueberries.
  • Pruning: Should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring while the plant is dormant. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches, as well as some of the older, less productive wood to encourage new growth and maintain good air circulation.
• Uses: The large, early, and flavorful berries are excellent for:
  • Fresh eating
  • Baking into muffins, pies, and other treats
  • Making jams, jellies, and preserves
  • Freezing well
  • Home gardens and pick-your-own operations in colder climates.
• Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds.
• Ornamental Value: 'Patriot' offers year-round ornamental appeal with its spring flowers, attractive summer foliage, delicious berries, striking red winter stems, and vibrant fall color. Its upright-spreading habit makes it a good choice for various landscape uses.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Patriot' exhibits good resistance to many common blueberry diseases, including Phytophthora root rot, which is a significant advantage in areas with heavy or poorly drained soils. It also shows good tolerance to powdery mildew.