HASKAP BERRY
This interesting fruit is a native of Canada, Japan, and Russia, and is well suited to growing conditions on POW. It is a Lonicera which is the genus that contains honeysuckle. The sweet flavor compares to a cross between blueberries and raspberries.
Two varieties are available; Borealis and Berry Blue.
It is important to have a pollinizer for Borealis! If purchasing Borealis you must also purchase Berry Blue to pollinate it.
‘Borealis’ is a large, firm selection that is easily handled for storage. Use ‘Berry Blue’ or ‘Honeyberry’ as a pollinizer for this variety. One plant will pollinate up to five females. Will bear fruit in 2-3 years.
‘Berry Blue’ will produce smaller, tart berries if planted alone. It is best used as a pollinizer to other varieties. One plant will pollinate up to five other plants. It will bear fruit in 1-2 years. Uniquely shaped fruit ripens early (mid-summer). It has excellent health benefits – very high in antioxidants. Haskap is an exciting new crop for North America.
Growing Info
Planting Instructions: Dig hole two times width of pot. Set top of root ball even with ground level. Combine planting mix and soil. Fill to ground level and tamp down firmly. Water to settle soil. Add layer of mulch to retain moisture and discourage weeds. Water regularly for the first year, then as needed once established. Pruning: Prune in late winter or very early spring for best results. Cut off all broken, diseased or weak branches. Do not prune over half of the newest growth.