Blueberry tips from the RHS

Gardeners in the UK are able to grow blueberries either in their greenhouse or straight into the ground in a sheltered area.

The plants should be grown together in batches of at least three to aid cross pollination and those who grow rhododendrons or camellias should find their blueberry bushes are successful too, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

Areas with acidic soils are more beneficial to the plants although the ground should be improved by composting and weeding before planting.

The RHS advises the compost be kept moist and should be watered with rainwater rather than from the tap if at all possible.

Mulching in spring and autumn with acidic or neutral organic matter will help feed the plants but mushroom and manure-based mulches should be avoided.

Blueberries are just one of a range of fruit and vegetables that can be grown in UK gardens and greenhouses.

According to the RHS, broad beans, beetroots, courgettes and marrows can all be cultivated in British soils.