Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a nutrient packed superfood that has been prized in many cultures for centuries. These small, vibrant red berries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that make them a fantastic addition to any diet. The good news? They’re surprisingly easy to grow yourself! In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about goji berries, from how to grow them in all zones to their incredible health benefits, and even a recipe for a delightful goji berry tea.
How to grow goji berries
Growing goji berries can be a rewarding experience, whether you choose to plant them in containers, directly in the ground, or indoors. Here’s a detailed guide to help you get started.
1. Starting from seeds
You can either purchase young goji berry plants from a nursery or start from seeds. If you choose seeds, here’s what to do:
- Where to Find Seeds: Look for organic, sun-dried goji berries at your local Asian market. The seeds inside these berries can be planted directly.
- Preparing the Seeds: Soak the seeds in water for at least 3 hours before planting. This helps soften the outer coating and encourages germination.
- Planting the Seeds: Sprinkle the seeds on moist potting soil, add a thin layer of soil on top, and water gently. Cover the container to create a greenhouse effect and place it in a warm spot.
- Germination: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seeds typically germinate within 14 days.
2. Caring for seedlings
Once the seedlings sprout, they’ll need plenty of light—ideally 12-16 hours daily. If natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights to provide the necessary brightness.
3. Transplanting outdoors
Goji berries are hardy plants and can thrive outdoors in various growing zones. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- In colder zones (like our zone 5b), start the plants indoors and wait until the last frost date before transplanting them outdoors.
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Space plants about 3-5 feet apart, as goji bushes can grow up to 6-10 feet tall and wide.
Best growing conditions
- Sunlight: Goji berries thrive in full sun, so pick a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: They prefer slightly alkaline soil with good drainage. If your soil is too acidic, consider adding lime to balance the pH.
- Watering: While goji plants are drought-tolerant once established, they still need consistent watering during their first year. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. During the growing season, compost or organic amendments work well to keep your plants healthy.
Container vs. In ground planting
Goji berries can be grown either in containers or directly in the ground. Here’s how to decide:
- Container planting: Perfect for small spaces or if you live in a colder climate. Use a large container with good drainage and move it indoors during harsh winters.
- In ground planting: Ideal for warmer zones or gardeners with ample space. These plants can spread extensively, so ensure they have enough room to grow.
When do goji berries start producing fruit?
Patience is key when growing goji berries. If starting from seeds, your plants will typically take 2-3 years to produce fruit. However, if you purchase young plants, you may see berries within the first year, depending on their maturity. Goji berries produce flowers in late spring or early summer, followed by fruit that ripens from midsummer to early fall.
Health benefits of goji berries
Goji berries pack a nutritional punch, making them a must-have superfood in your garden. Here are a few reasons to grow and enjoy them:
- Rich inantioxidants: Goji berries are loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health.
- High in protein and fibre: These berries are surprisingly rich in protein and dietary fibre, making them a great snack for energy and digestion.
- Packed with minerals: They’re an excellent source of essential minerals like copper, iron, selenium, and zinc, all of which contribute to a healthy immune system.
- Supports eye and skin health: Goji berries are high in beta-carotene, which promotes healthy vision and radiant skin.
Goji berry tea recipe
We love using goji in our tea. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe we like to make:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of dried goji berries
- 1 inch ginger thinly sliced for maximum flavour
- 1-2 cups of hot water
- Optional: Honey
Instructions:
- Place the goji berries in a cup or teapot.
- Pour hot water over the berries and let them steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Add honey or ginger if desired. Enjoy!
Growing goji berries may take some time before they start producing fruits, but I feel it’s worth the wait. Our plant is going onto its 3rd year, so hopefully this is the year we’ll get to harvest some fruits! So, why wait? Get started on your goji growing journey too!
