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Why Berries Are Sour: What Affects Sweetness and How to Improve the Quality of the Crop
16.03.2023 22:13
Updated: 14.04.2023 17:24
The taste of berries is determined not only by varietal characteristics, but also by growing conditions.
If the variety is famous for its sweet fruits, but the harvest is for some reason sour, you need to pay attention to the growing conditions of the plant.
Temperature
Raspberries, strawberries, and cherries will gain the required amount of sugar if the weather conditions are optimal and there are no surprises.
For example, the optimal temperature for a plant is within the range of +20 … +25 °C (for some, the threshold is higher – up to +28 °C), and the daytime indicator is maintained at +35 °C. In such conditions, raspberries or strawberries will accumulate less sugar.
How to improve taste
It is not only the weather that affects the taste. Nutritional imbalances also play a role. For example, when more nitrogen is added than necessary, the berries are watery and the acidity is more pronounced.
The taste can be adjusted with the help of a balanced diet. Plants should receive nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus in moderation, without an imbalance in any direction.
Lighting also plays a significant role. In the shade and on dense beds, more sour berries grow. Choosing a growing site, pruning and thinning also help to get a sweeter harvest.
