Honeyberries (Lonicera caerulea or haskap) are cold-hardy fruiting shrubs popular for their early harvest. These elongated, dark blue fruits offer a unique flavor, often described as a mix between a blueberry and a raspberry. Originating from the boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere, these plants are exceptionally resilient, tolerating temperatures as low as -40° Celsius. Growing honeyberries successfully is relatively straightforward, provided specific requirements for site selection and plant pairing are met.
Choosing the Right Location and Cultivar
Selecting an appropriate location is key to a successful honeyberry harvest. The bushes produce the most fruit when planted in full sun, which supports flower bud development and fruit ripening. In extremely warm regions, however, partial shade, especially in the afternoon, can prevent sun scald and reduce plant stress. Honeyberries are adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions, tolerating a pH from 4.5 to 8.5, an advantage over berry crops requiring highly acidic soil.
The most specific requirement for honeyberry cultivation is the need for cross-pollination to set fruit. Honeyberry bushes are not self-fertile, so you must plant at least two different varieties that have overlapping bloom times for successful fruit production. Varieties like ‘Aurora’ and ‘Honey Bee’ are known to be compatible partners, with newer releases like the ‘Boreal series’ offering larger fruit and later ripening times. Compatible varieties should be planted within about 15 meters of each other to facilitate pollination by insects like bumble bees.
Planting and Establishing Your Bush
The ideal time to plant honeyberry bushes is early spring, allowing the plant to establish its root system before summer heat. Soil preparation should focus on ensuring good drainage, as honeyberries do not tolerate standing water around their roots. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost or manure, into the planting hole will enrich the soil and help retain consistent moisture.
When planting, dig a wide hole to accommodate the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it was in its nursery container. After backfilling the hole, firm the area gently to remove air pockets and water thoroughly. Space the bushes 1 to 1.5 meters apart to allow for mature growth and good air circulation, which helps prevent disease. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base will help the shallow root system retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Ongoing Care and Nutrition
Consistent watering is necessary, particularly during the first few growing seasons and throughout the fruiting period, since the root system is shallow. An established bush requires approximately 2.5 centimeters of water per week, though they exhibit good drought tolerance once mature. Overwatering should be avoided, as the plants prefer moist but not saturated soil conditions.
Honeyberries benefit from a light annual application of balanced granular fertilizer, such as a 5-5-5 formula, in early spring as new growth begins. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can lead to lush green growth at the expense of fruit production. A top dressing of aged compost or manure applied around the root zone in the spring is an alternative. Do not apply fertilizer after mid-summer, as late-season feeding can encourage tender new growth susceptible to winter damage.
Pruning for Production
For the first three years after planting, the honeyberry bush requires minimal pruning, limited to removing any dead, damaged, or weak branches. This initial period allows the plant to focus its energy on establishing a strong root system and framework. Once the bush is established and begins bearing significant fruit, usually around the third to fifth year, a more structured pruning regimen can begin.
Pruning should occur immediately after the harvest is complete in early to mid-summer. The goal is to thin out the bush and encourage the development of new, vigorous one-year-old wood, which is where the fruit is produced. Remove a few of the oldest, thickest stems right down to the base to renew the bush and improve light penetration and air circulation to the center. Lightly tipping back the remaining young shoots can stimulate the formation of fruit-bearing side branches.
Pest and Disease Management
Honeyberries are generally resistant to many common fruit pests and diseases. The most significant threat to a honeyberry crop is often birds, which are highly attracted to the early-ripening fruit. The most reliable defense against birds is covering the bushes with fine-mesh bird netting just as the berries begin to change color.
The most common disease concern is powdery mildew, a fungal issue that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, usually in mid-to-late summer after the harvest. Good air circulation, achieved through proper spacing and pruning, helps minimize the risk of mildew development. Occasionally, common garden pests like aphids or spider mites may appear. These are typically not serious issues and can often be managed with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap if necessary.