Blueberries in the High Desert? Yes, You Can!

Most folks think blueberries are strictly a Pacific Northwest crop — foggy mornings, pine needles on the ground, plenty of rain. And yet, here we are in Southwest Colorado, dry as a bone some years, and we still get customers asking: “Can I really grow blueberries here?”

The short answer: yes — with a little planning.

Why Bother?

Because few things are more satisfying than stepping outside in July and picking berries warm from the sun. Blueberries aren’t just tasty — they’re gorgeous. In spring, they throw out delicate white flowers; by fall, their leaves blaze red. Even if you only get a handful of berries your first year, they earn their keep as a four-season shrub.

The Catch (and the Workaround)

Blueberries evolved in acidic soils. Ours? Not so much. Around Durango, Mancos, and Cortez, soils tend to be alkaline, which is a non-starter for blueberries in the ground. But here’s the trick:

• Grow them in big containers or raised beds filled with the right soil mix (think peat moss + pine bark + acidic amendments).
• Water consistently (they hate drying out).
• Protect them from our fiercest afternoon sun, especially down-valley where summers run hot.

Where They’ll Be Happiest

• Durango yards: Containers on a sunny patio — easy to control soil pH.
• Pagosa & higher elevations: Cooler nights? Perfect. Just tuck them in a sunny, wind-sheltered spot.
• Cortez & Montezuma County: Morning sun, afternoon shade, and maybe a little extra TLC with watering.
• USDA Zones: 4–8, depending on the variety.

A Few Insider Tips

• Plant at least two different varieties — they’ll pollinate each other and give you bigger, better harvests.
• Mulch with pine needles (bonus: they look nice and help keep soil acidic).
• Birds love blueberries as much as you do. Netting may save your crop.

Want the Full Game Plan?

We’ve put together a Blueberry Care Guide for your use!