The Blueberry 'Climax', or Vaccinium ashei, one of the most reliable and widely planted "Rabbiteye" blueberries in the world. It is highly valued for its upright growth habit and its ability to produce a large, concentrated harvest early in the season. The Climax blueberry produces large, firm, and sweet berries that are dark blue to black when fully ripe. The berries have a rich flavor and are excellent for fresh eating, baking, or processing into jams and preserves. The plant itself is a deciduous shrub with attractive foliage that turns red in the fall, adding ornamental value to the landscape. In spring, it produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators. It is an early-season variety, typically ready for harvest in late May to early June in the Southern United States. Home gardeners and commercial growers choose 'Climax' because it "kicks off" the blueberry season. Its ability to produce a heavy, uniform crop early in the year allows growers to enjoy or sell fruit before many other varieties have even begun to turn blue.

Plant Care & Characteristics

Light Requirements: Full Sun. Needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight. While it can tolerate a little afternoon shade in scorching Zone 9 climates, maximum fruit production and sweetness require plenty of sun.

Water Requirements: Moderate to High. Like its partner 'Austin', 'Climax' has a shallow root system. It requires consistent moisture, especially from flowering through harvest. It should never be allowed to dry out completely.

Drought Resistance: Low. It is sensitive to water stress. Without a thick layer of mulch (pine bark is best) and regular irrigation, the plant will wilt and fruit will shrivel. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Soil Type: Highly Acidic & Well-Drained. Requires a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. It thrives in soil high in organic matter (like peat moss). It is very sensitive to soil compaction and poor drainage.Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve fertility and drainage.

Deer Resistance: Low. Deer find the new growth and the berries very tasty. Fencing or bird netting (which often deters deer too) is recommended.

Pollination: 'Climax' is not self-fertile. It must be planted near another Rabbiteye variety that blooms at the same time. Cross-pollination with other blueberry varieties can lead to larger berries and better overall production. Consider planting compatible varieties such as 'Austin', 'Premier', Brightwell, or Powderblue nearby for optimal pollination.

"Early Bloom" Risk: 'Climax' has a relatively low chill requirement, it can sometimes be "fooled" by a warm spell in February and begin blooming too early. If a late freeze is predicted after the flowers have opened, you should cover the bushes with a frost blanket to save your fruit crop for the year.

Harvest: Climax blueberries typically ripen in mid to late season, usually around late May to early June in the southeastern United States. Harvest the berries when they are fully ripe and have developed their characteristic dark color. Berries should be firm and plump, with a sweet flavor indicating peak ripeness. Harvesting is typically done by hand, gently picking the ripe berries from the bush. 

Pruning: Prune the bushes annually in late winter to remove dead or diseased wood and encourage new growth and fruit production.