Blueberry in India, what we are seeing is a very quick growth of the blueberry farming sector as health-conscious consumers and foreign markets increase their demand for “superfoods” which include blueberries. If done right, blueberry farming in India is very profitable, but it is very much a case of which varieties to grow, weather and soil conditions, required capital investment and excellent farm management, which make the difference. In 2025, we look at how to get into the blueberry farming game in India, what initial and ongoing costs you will have and what kind of returns you may expect over time.
- Perfect conditions for blueberry farming.
Climate: Blueberries do well in cool to temperate climates. We see an ideal range of daytime temps at 18°C to 25°C. Also, some “low-chill” varieties will put out fruit in warmer states if nighttime temperatures cool down or if we use shade nets and polyhouse cooling.
Chill Hours & Adapted Varieties: Traditional varieties require long cold periods; in mild climates that don’t offer that cold period, we do better with low chill or heat-resistant varieties like Rabbiteye, Southern Highbush or certain hybrids.
Soil Requirements: Soil should be well-drained, rich in organic matter, and acidic nature with a pH that is around 4.5 to 5.5. If the native soil is alkaline, then amendments like sulfur, peat, or the use of soilless media (cocopeat, pine bark, etc. are required.
Watering & Irrigation: Regularly adequate moisture is a must, which is especially true during fruiting. Drip irrigation is the best method. Mulch use helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots.
- How to set up a blueberry farm.
Land Selection & Soil Testing
Choose which land has great sun exposure, access to water, and is either a gentle slope or flat (just make sure it drains well). Also, before planting out, test the soil for pH, organic matter, and nutrient levels.
Choosing the Variety
In your area, choose which varieties do best (low chill for warm areas, high bush and hybrid for cooler). Get disease-resistant, certified stock from a reliable nursery.
Planting & Layout
Plants which are spaced out in open fields are spaced 4 to 5 feet in between bushes and 8 to 10 feet in between rows. For soilless bags or raised beds that may vary.
Infrastructure
Irrigation / Drip System
Optional for shade nets or polyhouse if you require them to moderate heat or for a protected environment.
Mulch, raised beds, or containers if the soil is not up to par.
Nutrition, Pruning & Maintenance
Balanced fertiliser use, which includes trace elements, proper pruning, which is to remove dead wood and improve air flow, and regarding pest and disease control, which goes into issues like fungus and root rot.
Harvesting & Post-Harvest Handling
Hand selecting when berries turn completely blue; cooling right away; sorting, packaging, cold chain for freshness.
- In 2025, we will see which one for initial investment.
Here is a breakdown of approximate costs per acre (which will vary by region, scale, use of polyhouse or shade net, soilless media, etc.).
Component Approximate Cost (₹ / acre)
Plantation material saplings certified plants $2,00,000 $6,00,00, which depends on the number of plants and variety.
Soil amendments media (as required) ₹1,00,000 ₹2,00,000.
Irrigation drip system set up Rs . 1,00,000 to Rs . 3,00,000.
Shade net polyhouse protective cover (optional, which does improve yield) ₹3,00,000 ₹5,00,000.
Labour, land preparation, and mulching cost between ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000.
Miscellaneous (fencing, tools, pest control, packaging) range of ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000.
In many parts of India which see installation of protective infrastructure (shade nets, polyhouses) or use of soilless growing media the initial investment for a well managed blueberry farm per acre reports to be in the range of ₹10 to 15 lakhs or more for a well managed blueberry farm.
- Output and Profit Forecasts.
Timeframe Yield per Acre Expected Revenue*
Year 1 is just a small-scale establishment of plants, which is maybe Low or negative growth. We see it as a result of cost issues.
Year 2-3 2.5 4 tons depending on variety and care ₹10-30 lakh (if sold in bulk).
In Year 4 and beyond (mature stage), we see 5-10 tons per acre with ideal conditions, ₹35-₹80 lakh+ per acre annually (this varies with price and market).
Wholesale prices range from ₹500 to ₹800 per kg; in premium or retail branded export markets, we see higher prices.
After removing the variable annual expenses (labour, fertilisers, pest control, packaging, transport, maintenance), net profit per acre in the mature years may be in the range of ₹20 ₹60 lakh+, which also depends on scale, input costs and market price.
- Risks, Issues and Mitigation Strategies.
Soil pH & Soil Health: Maintain vigilance on soil acidity; use of improper soil without correction will reduce yield.
Climate Extremes: High temperatures, frosts, or out-of-season rain can damage plants and fruit. To that end, using protective coverings or shade nets is helpful.
High Initial Cost & Payback Period: In the first 2-3 years, growth is slow; return on investment you seen once the plants mature.
Pest & Disease Management: Regular evaluation, use of organic integrated pest management, proper drainage, which is to say not having water stand, is key.
- Government support and subsidy options.
In India government at both the state and central levels, as well as agricultural and horticultural boards, provides subsidies, grants or technical support for high-value and exotic fruit crops. These include:.
Infrastructure subsidies (polyhouse, shade net, irrigation)
Plant matter is given out or traded for certified young trees.
Training & extension services
Marketing assistance or export facilitation
In 2025, we see blueberry farming in India as a very promising high-value crop. With the right choice of variety, soil management, irrigation and market approach, we see strong profit potential. While entry-level costs are high, which is particularly for that premium infrastructure or soilless systems, at the same time, post-maturity returns can make it a very worthwhile investment.
