Precision irrigation drives Zimbabwe’s blueberry boom

Zimbabwe is rapidly becoming a global blueberry powerhouse. By combining high-altitude growing conditions with Netafim’s precision irrigation technology, the country is delivering premium-quality fruit to international markets during periods of low global supply, ensuring high returns for local growers.

Zimbabwe’s emergence as a major player in the global blueberry trade has drawn increasing attention across the region.

According to Netafim Southern and East Africa agronomist Christo van der Westhuizen, the country’s unique production window, favourable climate, and growing investment in precision irrigation have positioned it as a competitive supplier of premium fruit to international markets.

One of the main drivers behind Zimbabwe’s rapid growth in blueberries is timing. Zimbabwe produces fruit during a key off-season period, typically from May to October, when supply from major producers is limited.

“Zimbabwe produces world-class blueberries during a key global off-season window, when few competitors supply high-quality fruit,” says Van der Westhuizen. “This timing allows access to premium markets like Europe and increasingly China at higher prices, with strong demand when major producers have low or no supply.”

With established producers in Peru, South Africa and the Northern Hemisphere supplying at different times of the year, Zimbabwe’s production window gives it a strategic advantage. For growers, this means the opportunity to secure higher returns, provided they can consistently deliver fruit of export quality.

Climate and altitude favour high-quality fruit

Zimbabwe’s high-altitude production areas, often between 1 000 m and 1 800 m above sea level, create ideal growing conditions for blueberries. These regions typically experience moderate daytime temperatures combined with cooler nights during the growing season.

“Zimbabwe is highly suitable for blueberries due to its high-altitude climate, which provides moderate temperatures with relatively small daily fluctuations. Combined with good sunlight, rich, well-drained soils in many areas and reliable irrigation potential, these conditions support high yields of premium-quality fruit with excellent flavour and size,” Van der Westhuizen explains.

Why precision irrigation matters

Despite these natural advantages, successful blueberry production depends heavily on precise irrigation and nutrient management.

“Blueberries have shallow, sensitive roots that need consistent low soil pH, uniform moisture, and precise nutrient delivery without excess water or dry spells,” says Van der Westhuizen. “Netafim’s drip irrigation and precision practices suit blueberry production well because they help maintain those conditions.”

He adds that technology alone is not enough, noting that strong after-sales support from local dealers is essential to ensure correct installation, ongoing agronomic guidance and reliable system performance, ultimately helping farmers maximise returns in demanding, high-value blueberry production.

Maintenance: the overlooked factor

One of the most important lessons from blueberry irrigation, according to Van der Westhuizen, is the importance of system maintenance.

“Without proper maintenance, no irrigation system can deliver what it was designed and paid for. As soon as uniformity is influenced, the whole crop yield will go down,” he says.

Regular flushing, filter checks, pressure monitoring and timely repairs are therefore essential to maintain system performance and protect yields.

Let drainage guide irrigation decisions

When it comes to day-to-day irrigation management, Van der Westhuizen advises growers to let drainage guide their scheduling.

“In potted systems, irrigate when drainage from the pots reaches the required drain percentage levels, ensuring the root zone stays uniformly moist without waterlogging.”

For in-soil plantings, the same principle of monitoring the root zone applies. Van der Westhuizen advises growers to use a soil auger or probe to check moisture levels in the shallow root zone and to time irrigations so that consistent, low-tension moisture is maintained. This approach helps avoid dry spells that stress the fine roots, as well as overwatering that can lead to leaching, root rot or nutrient loss.

Precision as the foundation of profitability

As Zimbabwe’s blueberry sector continues to expand, the role of precise water and nutrient management becomes increasingly important. The crop’s sensitivity to moisture and pH levels means that irrigation is not just a support function, but a central driver of yield, quality and profitability.

For growers considering blueberries, Van der Westhuizen stresses the following: “Precision irrigation, proper maintenance and consistent monitoring are essential if you want to produce high-quality fruit and maximise returns.”