Effect of sawdust mulch on yields of select clones of lowbush blueberry

Abstract

The effect of sawdust mulch applied at 0-, 5- and 10-cm depths on yield of select clones of lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.) was studied in Prince Edward Island for three consecutive cropping cycles from 1985 to 1989. Sawdust applied post-plant, as a mulch, at a depth of 5 cm increased the total yield of the first three harvests by approximately 30% compared to the 0-cm mulch. Mean berry weight was also increased where sawdust was applied. There was not significant difference in yield between the 0- and 10-cm sawdust application treatments. The 10-cm sawdust mulch reduced plant survival by 23% compared with the check. Key words: Lowbush blueberry, Vaccinium angustifolium Ait., select clone, sawdust mulch, yield