Pretty sure it isn't blueberry rust, located in Hobart. The white residue is kaolin clay I was testing to stop the earwigs from eating all the new growth.
Mine often look a little shabby this time of year, but I have a much harsher summer than Hobart.
Couple of things could be going on – assuming they’re getting lots of sun (8+ hours ideally), the fungal problems (rust) could be a lack of airflow. You can try pruning lower branches to open up the area around the trunk.
Bluebs are a bit fussy with nutrients/soil conditions too. They need a slightly acidic soil. Did you use a blueberry specific mix when potting them? If not, you may have to test your soil and correct the pH based on what you find.
Consistent_Gap9503
My guess would’ve been rust, but if you’re confident it isn’t then that’s that. You’re safe to pull off the damaged leaves, my blueberries drop all their leaves around May, so if its colder down south could be that.
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Mine often look a little shabby this time of year, but I have a much harsher summer than Hobart.
Couple of things could be going on – assuming they’re getting lots of sun (8+ hours ideally), the fungal problems (rust) could be a lack of airflow. You can try pruning lower branches to open up the area around the trunk.
Bluebs are a bit fussy with nutrients/soil conditions too. They need a slightly acidic soil. Did you use a blueberry specific mix when potting them? If not, you may have to test your soil and correct the pH based on what you find.
My guess would’ve been rust, but if you’re confident it isn’t then that’s that. You’re safe to pull off the damaged leaves, my blueberries drop all their leaves around May, so if its colder down south could be that.