Blueberries for Lunch
As omnivores, Box Turtles need to eat more than just worms and slugs. They have survived for millions of years eating whatever they came across.
As climates settled and became consistent, plants evolved in different habitats creating reliable food sources which helped our Eastern Box Turtle become the recognizable turtle that we know today.
One plant that evolved with our Eastern Box Turtles in the wooded under-story—and was once as wild and native as the turtles themselves—is the blueberry plant.
There are a few native varieties of Blueberries that can still be found in scattered patches of old-growth woods around central Virginia, but the good news is that all varieties of cultivated Blueberries have been created from these wild bushes and do well in our slightly acidic soil.
Blueberries are considered to be a superfood. They provide fiber, and are a good source of vitamin K1, vitamin C, and manganese, along with vitamins E, B6, and copper.
Blueberries are good for us, and they are good for wildlife. Box Turtles are not the only critters that enjoy this sunny summer fruit. Blueberries are a favorite among songbirds, small rodents, foxes, and deer to name a few.
And blueberries are easy to grow. Blueberry growers in the northeast say “if you can grow pines and cedars, You can grow blueberries.” The acidic soil that is enjoyed by these native trees is also enjoyed by blueberries.
Coffee grounds can be occasionally placed around the base of Blueberry plants and act as an inexpensive fertilizer, giving the plants a boost.
If you are into companion planting, strawberries grow well at the base of blueberry bushes benefiting from the scattered shade of the bush while protecting its roots and holding in moisture. Strawberries are also loved by our native box turtles.
Blueberry bushes are self-pollinating and produce both male and female flowers, but it is recommended to plant more than one variety for larger fruit, and don’t forget to add an extra bush or two for the turtles and the wildlife.