Bog Bilberry, Dwarf Bilberry
vaccinium uliginosum
Also known as: ["Dwarf Bilberry","Bog Blueberry"]
Overview
A low-growing shrub native to northern regions, producing edible blue berries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Vaccinium |
| Botanical Name: | Vaccinium uliginosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: moist, shaded woodland garden or container in cooler climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Acidic, peat-rich, well-draining mix (e.g., 50% peat, 25% perlite, 25% compost).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after fruiting if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of oldest stems for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in dappled shade outdoors or near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is best; avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; adjust based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
acidic, moist, well-drained peat-based soil
pH: 4.5–5.5 (acidic).
Use acidic amendments, ensure good drainage, avoid alkaline soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F/10–21°C); tolerates cooler nights; prefers consistent conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid heat sources; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize before new growth; avoid late-season feeding; water before and after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, warm temperatures (65–75°F/18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone (auxin) recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire stems; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or weak growth; shape plant for airflow and light penetration; encourage fruiting wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/weak growth, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Use acidic, well-draining soil; tease out dense roots; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill container; essential for healthy growth and fruiting.
Checklist
Choose correct soil, prepare new pot, handle roots gently, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, pine bark, or sulfur to lower pH; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; roots become susceptible to damage.
Solution: Provide winter protection (mulch, frost cloth); avoid sudden temperature drops; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; reduced flowering or fruiting; increased water demand.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose correct fertilizer, dilute properly, apply at base, water after.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, acid-loving fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or specific blueberry/Vaccinium formula); apply in early spring and midsummer; dilute to half strength.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicVaccinium uliginosum berries are not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion of large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal distress due to the plant's natural compounds and fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile the berries of Vaccinium uliginosum are not highly toxic to dogs, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's natural compounds and fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicVaccinium uliginosum, commonly known as bog bilberry or dwarf blueberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, consumption of large quantities of the berries may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content and natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Vaccinium uliginosum edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and can be eaten raw or used in cooking.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in acidic, moist soils and partial shade, typical of boreal and alpine regions.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and berries.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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