The cranberry, originally from North America, is a creeping plant that develops very long tendrils and is no more than 30 to 40 centimeters high. It is one of the heather plants and forms bright red fruits that are very rich in vitamins. Cranberries can also be cultivated in Germany, provided the soil is not too heavy.

Which location do cranberries prefer?

Like almost all fruit trees, the cranberry needs a location with as much sun as possible. The rule of thumb is: the sunnier the plant is, the more fruit it produces.

What should the soil be like?

The soil should be as moist, humus-rich and acidic as possible - after all, it is a heather plant. If the soil in your garden does not meet these requirements, you can remedy this by adding plenty of rhododendron soil. However, the soil should not be too nutrient-rich, otherwise the cranberry will develop little or no flowers and therefore no fruit. The cranberry does not like calcareous soil either. A peaty soil on which not much else will grow is best.

How and when is the best time to plant cranberries?

Planting time is from March to May and from September to early October. Thorough digging before planting is not necessary. It is sufficient if you loosen the soil a little and mix in the mature compost. Dig generously sized planting holes and put the plants in there. The root ball should be covered with soil. Before planting, you should remove damaged roots with a sharp knife.

What is the ideal distance between individual plants?

The cranberry is a ground covering creeper. You should therefore place a maximum of six plants per square meter. The individual plants need a distance of about half a meter from each other.

Flowering time / harvest time

The pink-white flowers appear from May to August. Like the berries, they are sensitive to frost. The berries can be harvested from October. Fully ripe berries have a red skin and red flesh throughout.

Can I grow cranberries?

Yes, the propagation of cranberries is relatively easy with cuttings. To do this, plant annual or perennial shoots in a planting hole about five to eight centimeters deep and water it thoroughly. The first roots should form within a few weeks.

Good and bad neighbors

Cranberries harmonize wonderfully with rhododendron bushes and blueberries, which have similar soil quality and water requirements. These plant partners also protect the shrub from cold and dehydration. Cranberries are quite sensitive to frost and therefore require appropriate protection.

tips and tricks

Cover the ground around the cranberry bushes with a thick layer of bark mulch, especially in winter. On the one hand you protect the roots from frost and cold, on the other hand you ensure that the soil does not dry out.

Category:

Vegetable garden