Abstract
Two separate studies were conducted to study the effects of kaolin applications (Surround WP) on southern highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosumL.). When applied to mature blueberry plants, kaolin clay emulsion dried to form a white reflective film and affected bud development, fruit set and development, plant growth, and fruit yield, but had no effect on fruit quality attributes. ‘Cooper’ received a single application of kaolin during flowering (bud stages 3-6) which increased fruit set and reduced the rate of flower bud development. Berry size was reduced with kaolin, perhaps due to increased number of fruit present. ‘Magnolia’ received a single application of kaolin at four different stages of maturity resulting in a linear increase in plant volume with early applications. When kaolin was applied before fruit set, yield was increased with no significant residue left on the fruit.