Overview
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is an evergreen hybrid shrub that originates from eastern North America. This hybrid plant is a cross between Vaccinium arboreum, commonly known as sparkleberry or farkleberry, and Vaccinium ashei, commonly known as rabbiteye blueberry.
Common Names
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is commonly known as Dobbins' sparkleberry or Dobbins' blueberry. The plant is named after its original discoverer, Roy Dobbins, who found the first plant growing in Covington County, Alabama in the 1950s.
General Appearance
The plant has a rounded growth habit with an average height of 6-10 feet. It has dark green, oval-shaped leaves that are approximately 2-3 inches long. The leaves have wavy margins and are slightly toothed. The plant produces white or pinkish bell-shaped flowers in early spring, which are followed by small, dark blue berries that ripen in late summer. The berries are edible and have a sweet taste.
Uses
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance. The plant produces berries that are edible and can be used for making jams, jellies and pies. The berries are also eaten by birds and other wildlife.
Growth Conditions for Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.)
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is a hybrid blueberry cultivar that requires specific growing conditions for optimal growth. Here are some key factors to consider when cultivating this plant:
Light Requirements
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) requires full sunlight exposure to grow and thrive. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, and 8-10 hours of sunlight per day is optimal. The plant cannot tolerate the shade and will not grow or produce fruit in shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is suited to regions with a cool and temperate climate and requires a mean annual temperature of 10-15°C. Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) does not tolerate high temperatures and humidity, and temperatures above 30°C can severely damage the plant and cause it to wilt and not produce fruit. The plant requires a cold period to stimulate flower bud development during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) thrives in acidic soils with a pH range between 4.0 and 5.5. The soil should be well-drained and have a high organic matter content. The plant requires a moist growing environment, but the soil should not be waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and damage the plant. The plant also responds well to the addition of peat moss or sawdust to the soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Cultivation
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is a small shrub that belongs to the family Ericaceae. It is an evergreen plant that requires acidic soils, with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. The plant mostly grows in semi-shaded areas but can also tolerate full sun. It is important to note that this plant is susceptible to root rot diseases, so it should be planted in well-draining soils. The shrub can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent watering but can tolerate drought conditions. It is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered, as it may lead to root rot. The frequency of watering should be reduced during the winter season to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
The soil of Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) should be enriched with organic matter before planting. Fertilization should be done in the early spring using a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The shrub can also benefit from monthly fertilization during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential practice for the plant as it promotes healthy growth and maintains a desirable shape. The best time to prune Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is during the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. The shrub should be pruned to remove any dead or diseased wood. It is recommended to only remove up to one-third of the shrubs' total height during pruning.
Propagating Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.)
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is a hybrid shrub that is a cross between Vaccinium uliginosum and Vaccinium corymbosum. Here are some methods for propagating this plant species:
Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings are the preferred method for propagating Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) Cuttings from the current year's growth, usually in late spring or early summer, are taken from the tips of the shrub. Remove the lower leaves and dip the base of the cutting in hormone powder to encourage rooting. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining rooting medium and keep them in a humid environment for better rooting. In about six weeks, the cuttings should be rooted and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Layering
Layering is another propagation method suitable for Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.). In spring, choose a low-lying branch and bend it down so that its lower part touches the soil. Then, scrape the surface as it touches the soil slightly to peel the bark. Use stakes to hold the branch in place. Water the area regularly. After one growing season, roots should have developed from the scraped area. Cut the branch from the parent plant and plant it in a new container or back in the soil.
Division
Over time, Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) shrubs can grow into thick clumps, making them great candidates for division. Early spring, before new growth resumes, is the ideal time to divide this plant species. Carefully dig up the shrub and use pruners or serrated knives to divide it into several sections. Ensure each section has healthy roots and stems before replanting in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management of Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.)
Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) is a hybrid plant that is vulnerable to various diseases and insect pests. To ensure optimal growth and health of this plant, it is crucial to have an effective disease and pest management plan in place. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi, and it is characterized by the appearance of small, circular spots on the leaves. The spots may be yellow, brown, or black. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight and air circulation. Fungicidal sprays can also be used as a preventative measure.
Mummy Berry: This disease is caused by fungi and affects the fruit. The infected fruit turns light brown and shrivels up, resembling a mummy. The disease is spread by spores that overwinter in the soil. To manage mummy berry, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected fruit as soon as it is observed. Fungicidal sprays are also effective in preventing the disease.
Phytophthora Root Rot: This disease is caused by a water mold that infects the roots and leads to the death of the plant. Plants that are stressed due to poor drainage or overwatering are more susceptible to the disease. To manage Phytophthora root rot, it is recommended to ensure that the plant receives proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can also be used for prevention.
Pests
Blueberry Maggot: The blueberry maggot is a common insect pest of Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.). Larvae of this small fly infest the fruit and cause significant damage. To manage blueberry maggot, it is recommended to use sticky traps, remove and destroy infested fruit, and use insecticidal sprays.
Spotted Wing Drosophila: This pest is a fruit fly that is prone to attack ripe fruit. The larvae infest the fruit and make it unsuitable for consumption. To manage spotted wing drosophila, it is recommended to remove and destroy infested fruit, use insecticidal sprays, and cover the fruit with mesh nets.
Blueberry Gall Midge: The blueberry gall midge is a small fly that damages the tips of young Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) shoots. Infected shoots die back, reducing fruit production. To manage blueberry gall midge, it is recommended to prune and remove infected shoots, maintain plant health and apply insecticide sprays.
By implementing a comprehensive disease and pest management plan, gardeners and farmers can maintain the health of Vaccinium ×dobbinii Burnham (pro sp.) and ensure bountiful harvests of its delicious berries.
