Lingonberries, blueberries and bilberries are three types of berries that have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their beneficial properties.
They're rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that help boost the immune system, improve heart health, and even prevent some types of cancer.
Growing these berries can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity, but it requires some knowledge and effort.
Here's how to grow lingonberries, blueberries, and huckleberries in your own backyard.
Choose the right landing site
The first step to growing these berries is choosing the right planting location.
Lingonberries, blueberries, and huckleberries prefer acidic soil with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.0. Make sure the soil is well-drained, as they do not like standing water or overly wet conditions.
Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, as this will ensure the best fruiting.
Set the stage
Before planting berries, you need to prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or manure to improve its fertility. This will also help improve drainage if necessary.
If you have clay soil, you may need to add sand or gravel to improve drainage.
After adding organic matter and improving drainage, it is important to test the soil pH level with a pH meter or testing kit so you know what adjustments need to be made before planting berries.
Planting berries
Once you've prepared the soil and checked the pH levels, it's time to plant your berries! For optimal growth and fruiting, cranberry plants should be planted at least 2 feet apart, and blueberry plants should be planted 3 feet apart.
Blueberry plants should also be planted 3 feet apart, but they can tolerate more shade than lingonberries or blueberries, so they can be planted in partially shaded areas if needed.
Plant care
Once your plants are established, it's important to keep them in good condition by providing plenty of water (about 1 inch per week), fertilizing them each spring with an organic fertilizer such as fish emulsion or compost tea, pruning them regularly (at least once a year), and controlling any pests or diseases that may attack them.
It is also important to mulch the soil around the plants with organic materials such as wood chips or straw, which will help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from competing with the berry plants for nutrients and water.
Berry picking
When it comes time to pick berries, lingonberries should be picked when they turn red and blueberries when they turn dark blue or purple.
Blueberries are usually ready to pick when they are a deep purple, but they can be eaten when they are lighter in color if desired. Be sure to pick only ripe berries, otherwise they will not taste as sweet!
Growing lingonberries, blueberries, and huckleberries may take some effort, but it's worth it! With proper care and maintenance, these tasty fruits can provide you with many health benefits while adding beauty to any garden plot!
