Goji berries are a superfruit valued for their dense nutritional content. While they are vigorous growers in the ground, container gardening offers a practical solution for urban environments or for managing their sprawling nature. This method allows growers to control the soil and environment, providing the specific conditions needed to thrive and produce a satisfying harvest. Successful cultivation requires attention to container size, soil composition, and year-round maintenance.
Container Selection and Soil Requirements
The extensive root system of a goji plant demands a large container to support healthy growth and fruiting. A mature plant requires a pot with a minimum capacity of 10 to 15 gallons, though 20 gallons is better for long-term health. The container must have excellent drainage holes, as these plants are sensitive to waterlogged conditions and root rot. Starting with a smaller pot and gradually moving the plant to larger sizes, a process called up-potting, helps the root system establish itself fully.
The ideal potting medium must be well-draining, achieved by mixing high-quality potting soil with amendments like perlite, sand, or grit. Goji berries prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH, ideally ranging from 6.8 to 8.1. If using commercial potting mix, incorporating compost or aged manure provides necessary initial nutrients and helps maintain the desired soil structure. Avoid using heavy garden soil, which compacts easily and prevents proper aeration.
Daily Maintenance: Light, Water, and Feeding
Goji berries require full sunlight, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sun exposure daily, to produce a good crop. Insufficient light reduces the plant’s energy reserves, leading to reduced fruit yield. Containerized plants dry out faster than those in the ground, so allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out completely between waterings.
During the peak summer growing season, watering frequency may need to increase, sometimes requiring daily checks. Since nutrients leach out of the potting mix with deep watering, container plants need regular feeding. A balanced, organic liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, should be applied monthly throughout the active growing season. Alternatively, enrich the soil with organic compost once or twice a year to provide a slow-release source of nutrition.
Managing Growth: Pruning and Support
Pruning is necessary for containerized goji plants to control their sprawling growth and maximize fruit production. Since the fruit develops on the previous year’s growth, structured pruning is essential for a good harvest. Dormant pruning occurs in late winter or early spring before new growth appears, focusing on removing dead or weak branches. At this time, establish a framework of three to five main stems to give the plant an open, manageable bush shape.
Throughout the summer, maintenance pruning should be performed. Pinching back the tips of new growth redirects the plant’s energy, promoting the side shoots that will bear fruit. It is also important to remove suckers emerging from the base of the plant to focus energy on the main framework. Due to the weight of the fruit and the tendency of branches to sprawl, a strong support system, such as a sturdy stake or small trellis, is required.
Overwintering Container Goji Plants
While the goji plant is cold-hardy, roots confined in a container are vulnerable to freezing. For regions experiencing severe winters, typically USDA zones 6 and below, protection is required to prevent the root ball from freezing solid. The simplest method is to move the dormant plant into a cool, unheated location, such as a garage or cold frame. The temperature must remain above freezing but cool enough to ensure the plant stays dormant.
If moving the container is not practical, the pot must be heavily insulated outdoors. This involves wrapping the container with material like burlap, straw, or bubble wrap and placing it against a sheltered wall. During winter dormancy, watering should be drastically reduced but not eliminated entirely. Check the soil periodically and provide just enough water to prevent the roots from completely drying out.