Duke

Duke blueberry is a tall deciduous shrub, reaching heights of 1.3 to 1.8 meters. This variety was developed in Wayne, New Jersey, and officially named 'Duke' in 1987. The bushes feature vigorous growth, dense and moderately branched canopies, and numerous thick, woody stems. Recommended spacing between plants is 90 to 150 cm, ensuring optimal conditions for growth and fruiting.

The berries of the 'Duke' variety are large, light-blue, with a diameter of 17 to 20 mm and weight of 1.7 to 2.5 grams. They form large clusters and have firm flesh with a noticeable crisp texture. The flavor is delicate, sweet-tart with a subtle tang, making them especially appealing to consumers. The berries detach easily and dryly, facilitating harvest. Fruit ripening occurs early — in early June or early to mid-July, allowing harvest before many other varieties.

The 'Duke' variety is highly productive — one bush can yield 6.8 to 9 kg of berries. It exhibits good cold tolerance, surviving temperatures from -28°C to -32°C, and is resistant to diseases and pests. Blueberry tolerates drought well and responds positively to fertilization, making it an easy-to-maintain option suitable for cultivation in temperate climates. Due to these qualities, the 'Duke' variety is one of the most popular and reliable for both commercial and hobbyist cultivation.