Be a Berry Grower
We’re crazy for backyard berries and growing them couldn’t be easier. Just give them a sunny spot with well drained soil, a little water and you’ll be enjoying a homegrown harvest in no time.
Berry selections available today offer gardeners a multitude of colors and flavors. Most need full sun and, with the exception of blueberries, need neutral soil. Nearly all small fruit plants will grow successfully with moderate care – an application of fertilizer or compost, mulch for weed control, and regular pruning to aid in disease prevention and encourage large fruit. With proper care, these sweet treasures will reward you for years to come. Shoot for a mix of different types and varieties that ripen at different times to extend the harvest season.
GROWING STRAWBERRIES – plant in early spring. Plant roots shallowly in soil rich in organic matter. Water deeply but allow plants to dry slightly between watering. Mulch lightly during spring, summer and fall to help keep soil cool and to help control weeds. Mulch heavily during the cooler months to avoid damage to crowns. Fertilize with a high quality fruit fertilizer, but avoid fertilizing late in the season as this can encourage new growth that can be damaged by early frosts.
We recommend Berries Galore Strawberries, the world’s first strawberry with HOT PINK flowers! Taste the sunshine in the juicy and delicious mid-sized fruit that can be picked every 3-4 days in season. We also love Chandler Strawberries, a vigorous, high-yielding plant that produces large, firm fruit. This red ruby gem has an exceptionally sweet flavor.
GROWING BLUEBERRIES – plant in late winter or spring. Blueberries like an acidic, richly composted soil and prefer a full sun to part shade location. Blueberries have shallow root systems so fluctuations in water should be avoided. A 3 to 4-inch layer of mulch will help keep soil moist. Water regularly to maintain plant health and avoid leaf and flower drop. Prune lightly during the first 2-3 years to maintain shape. Mature blueberries should have older canes removed to encourage new growth. Fertilize using a high quality fruit fertilizer.
We recommend: Rabbiteye Blueberries, a reliable and dependable blueberry will produce berry-licious fruit all summer long. Remember, you need two shrubs for the “berry” best production. With sweet berries, these dark blue beauties are easy to grow.
