Blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum) SOUTHLAND

Blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum) 'Southland'

Proven mid-early Rabbiteye variety with excellent flavor.

'Southland' is an older but still popular variety from the University of Georgia program, released in 1969. Although it has been replaced by more modern varieties in the commercial sector, it remains attractive to home growers thanks to its excellent, rich, and sweet flavor. It is a reliable choice for those who prioritize taste experience over extreme shelf life.

Key Highlights:

• Excellent taste: Rich and sweet, one of the best among older varieties.
• Reliability: Proven variety for home gardens.
• Mid-early ripening: Ripens in mid-season.
• Medium chill requirement: Requires 450 – 500 chill hours.
• Suitable for fresh consumption and processing.

Origin and Registration

• Origin: USA (University of Georgia and USDA). Released in 1969.
• Genetics: Cross of 'Ethel' x 'Callaway'.

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Medium vigor, rather spreading habit.
• Productivity: Medium (lower compared to modern commercial varieties).

Fruit

• Size: Medium-sized.
• Color: Dark blue.
• Quality: Firmness and stem scar are average (less suitable for long transport).
• Taste: Excellent, sweet, and aromatic – the main reason for growing it.

Resistance and Requirements

• Pollination: The variety is self-sterile. It requires a pollinator blooming in mid-season (e.g., 'Brightwell') for a good yield.

Harvest and Usage

• Harvest time: Mid-season.
• Usage: Ideal for home gardens and fresh consumption, where long shelf life is not key.