These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
2 year old plants, 16-20 inches tall. 1 Liter container.
Key Characteristics of Top Shelf Blueberries:
Origin: 'Top Shelf' is a Northern Highbush blueberry cultivar (Vaccinium corymbosum) developed by the Oregon Blueberry Breeding Program at Oregon State University and was released in 2021. It was bred for its very large berry size, excellent flavor, and consistent yields. It is the result of a cross between 'ORUS 41-8' and 'ORUS 856-2'.
Patent Status: 'Top Shelf' Blueberry is protected by U.S. Plant Patent PP24,697, held by Fall Creek Farm and Nursery Inc. until 2032-08-09. This patent restricts unauthorized asexual reproduction, including propagation, and sale of the cultivar.
Berry Production: Produces exceptionally large, firm, light blue berries with a very good, sweet flavor. The berry size is a standout characteristic, often exceeding that of other popular large-fruited varieties. It is reported to have consistent and high yields once established. The berries also exhibit good post-harvest handling and storage potential.
Ripening Time: 'Top Shelf' is a mid-season ripening Northern Highbush blueberry. In the Pacific Northwest, it typically ripens around the same time as or slightly after 'Bluecrop', providing a reliable harvest in the middle of the blueberry season.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Top Shelf' is a vigorous, upright-growing shrub that is reported to have a manageable size, typically reaching a mature height of 5 to 6 feet and a spread of 4 to 5 feet. It has an attractive, somewhat open growth habit with good vigor.
Flowers: Produces white, urn-shaped flowers in clusters during the spring, typical of highbush blueberries. These flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Hardiness: 'Top Shelf' is expected to have good winter hardiness suitable for USDA Zones 5 through 8, consistent with many other Northern Highbush varieties developed in the Pacific Northwest.
Pollination: While considered partially self-fertile, cross-pollination with another compatible Northern Highbush blueberry variety is recommended to maximize fruit set, berry size, and overall yield. Suitable pollinizers that bloom around the same time as 'Top Shelf' would be beneficial.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal fruit production and flavor.
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 exceptionally large and flavorful berries are highly desirable for:
Fresh eating due to their impressive size and taste.
Adding to fruit salads and desserts.
Baking into muffins, pies, and other treats where large berries are preferred.
Freezing well.
Commercial production for fresh markets due to their premium quality and size.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
Ornamental Value: 'Top Shelf' offers good ornamental appeal with its spring flowers and attractive foliage. Its manageable, upright habit also makes it suitable for various landscape uses.
Disease and Pest Resistance: As a newer cultivar from a reputable breeding program, 'Top Shelf' is expected to have good overall disease resistance. Specific details on its resistance profile compared to other varieties may become more widely available over time.
