Darrell Blackwelder   For the Salisbury Post   July 1, 2004       The exessive rainfall over the past few weeks has produced a bumper crop of blueberries for Randy Eliums Blueberry Farm this spring. Larger than normal berries are weighting limbs down. Ample rainfall now and a mild spring has produced one of the best blueberry crops ever.       Blueberries are considered a dual-purpose shrub, possessing appeal as a border planting as well as a plant that produces ample supplies of delicious fruit. Blueberries also produce anti-oxidants beneficial in reducing many types of cancers.       Four types of cultivated blueberries varieties extend the season until early August. An acid-loving plant, blueberries need growing conditions similar to azaleas, camellias and rhododendron. Well-drained, low pH organic soils are preferred for maximum growth and development. These plants also need full sun with an ample supply of water during droughts.       Because blueberries are relatively insect and disease free, little or no pesticides are needed for the crop. The only real competitor is birds, which seem to enjoy them as soon as they begin to ripen. Those who have an interest in seeing mature plants or just want to pick berries should consider visiting a pick-your-own blueberry operation.       Elium Farms is located off Dunns Mountain Road in Eastern Rowan County, just behind McClannless Golf Course. Blueberries are $4:00 per quart already picked. Contact Elium Farms at 704-902-8378 or e-mail   service@piedmontfarmyard.com for more information or to place an order.   Darrell Blackwelder is an agricultural agent in charge of horticulture with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. For archived garden columns or other information, visit the Rowan County Master Gardener web site at www.rowanmastergardener.com , e-mail Darrell_Blackwelder@ncsu.edu or phone at 704-633-0571.