Goji Berries have long been appreciated for their notable health benefits and continue to be highlighted in the wellness community to this day. But it doesn’t require a trip to the store to experience these highly valued berries as they can easily be grown right at home!
Growing Gojis Guide
The Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum), also known as the Wolfberry, is a low maintenance, hardy, and drought tolerant deciduous shrub that produces red, yellow, or black berries (Lycium ruthenicum) that are packed with nutrients. The berries are supercharged with high amounts of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, B vitamins, fatty acids and amino acids.
A must have plant for any food forest as they tend to have a long fruiting period. Gojis set fruit in late June and continue fruiting all the way through fall to be harvested and enjoyed over an extended period of time. Goji Berries have a sweet, tangy flavor and can be eaten fresh or added to smoothies, juices, or even made into tea.
Goji plants are hardy to USDA Zones 5-9 and the Phoenix Tears Goji is even hardier, down to Zone 3, which makes these plants an excellent addition for both cooler climates or warmer areas. They prefer to be planted in well draining soil and thrive best in full day sun. If limited on outdoor space, they can easily be grown in containers as well. Even though their roots tend to grow deep, Goji plants will acclimate to a more confined container space and it’s best to choose larger, deeper pots when potting up once the plant has matured.
Goji plants are quite drought tolerant once established, however, it is recommended to provide deep waterings during their first 1-2 years after planting to help anchor and strengthen their root system. Since these plants tend to be vigorous growers, pruning is encouraged to help keep their shape maintained and to promote fruiting. Goji Berries will ripen on new first year wood, so it’s okay to be generous when pruning in the late fall or early winter. Once established, the plant exhibits a beautiful weeping-like form and as the berries begin to ripen, they light up any yard they land in.
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