Bilberry
Vaccinium myrtillus

Bilberry Plant

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a perennial herb growing 6-24 in tall, hardy in USDA Zones 3-7, prefers well-drained, acidic soil, part shade to full shade, medium to high moisture, edible, and has medicinal uses.


Picture illustrating bilberry plant

Habit

Perennial

Height

0.2-0.4 m

Growth

Slow

Soil

Well-drained, acidic soil

Shade

Part shade to full shade

Moisture

Medium to high

Edible

Yes

Medicinal

Yes

Origin

Europe

Climatic Condition

Temperate

Temperature (°)

10-20°C

Humidity (%)

60-70%

Potting media

Peat-based mix

Fertilizers

Organic compost

Watering

 Regular watering; keep soil moist but not waterlogged

Plant Weight 

0.1-0.5 kg

Flowering Time

Summer to Fall

Soil Ph level

4.5 - 5.5

Water Ph level

5.0 - 5.5

Soil EC

0.4 - 0.6

Yield Per Plant 

0.5-1 kg per plant

NPK ratio 

10:05:10

life Span

Perennial

Health Benefits

High in antioxidants; supports eye health.

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

50% peat moss, 30% perlite, 20% sand


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with an acidic fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

Powdery Mildew, Leaf Spot, Root Rot, Aphids, Botrytis Blight

White powdery spots on leaves, Brown or black spots on leaves, Wilting, yellowing leaves, root decay, Sticky residue, yellowing leaves, Gray mold on leaves, flowers

 Neem oil, baking soda spray, Remove infected leaves, neem oil, Improve drainage, reduce watering, Insecticidal soap, neem oil, Improve air circulation, neem oil

In-Organic Remedies

Sulfur-based fungicides, Copper-based fungicides, Fungicides containing metalaxyl, Imidacloprid, Fungicides containing chlorothalonil

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

Eye Health: Rich in anthocyanins, which improve vision and may help with night blindness.

Antioxidant-Rich: Protects against oxidative stress and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Heart Health: Supports cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and lowering cholesterol.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Helps manage diabetes by stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Anti-Inflammatory: May reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis and colitis.

Elderberry
Sambucus nigra