Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) MEADER

Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) 'Meader'

Robust Hardiness Champion: A variety built for the harshest conditions with high adaptability.

The 'Meader' variety is synonymous with resilience. This early to mid-season blueberry was bred in the rugged climate of New Hampshire, granting it extreme frost hardiness and the ability to thrive where other varieties fail. It is a robust, fast-growing plant that provides reliable yields of large, firm berries. If you are looking for a blueberry that can handle tough winters, mountain climates, or less-than-ideal soil, 'Meader' is your top choice.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Extreme Frost Hardiness: Withstands temperatures from -30 °C to -34 °C (-22 °F to -29 °F) without damage.
• High Adaptability: Performs excellently in harsher climatic conditions and upland regions.
• Soil Tolerance: More tolerant of slightly heavier soils compared to other highbush varieties.
• Vigorous Growth: Fast-growing and vital shrub with an early onset of bearing.
• Fruit Quality: Large, very firm berries with good shelf life.
• Self-fertile and highly stable yields.

Origin and Breeding

• Origin: USA (New Hampshire). Breeder: Prof. Elwyn M. Meader. Released in 1971.
• Lineage: Developed from the cross 'Earliblue' × 'Bluecrop'.

Variety Characteristics

Shrub and Growth

• Vigor and Habit: Strong, vigorous, and very fast growth. Reaches a mature height of 150 – 200 cm. It has an upright habit with sturdy, thick canes.
• Canopy: The shrub is naturally open and airy, which significantly facilitates harvesting and reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
• Pollination: The variety is partially self-fertile. However, cross-pollination with another variety is recommended to maximize yield and fruit size.

Fruit

• Size and Shape: Large berries, slightly flattened in shape, with a small and dry stem scar.
• Color and Firmness: Dark blue color with a medium waxy bloom. The flesh is very firm, ensuring good durability.
• Flavor: Good, classic blueberry taste—sweet-tart and refreshing.

Resilience and Requirements

• Frost: Top-tier frost resistance (USDA zones 3-7). Specifically adapted for northern and mountainous regions.
• Soil: While it requires acidic pH, it is known for its higher tolerance toward less-than-ideal soil structures.
• Diseases: Features high overall resistance to common blueberry diseases.

Harvest and Yield

• Harvest Time: Early to mid-season. Ripens usually in the second half of July.
• Yield: High and very stable. Thanks to their firmness, the berries handle transport and manipulation exceptionally well.