Berry bushes that grow well in CNY
Nursery Stock
Berry Bushes
Berry Bushes
Blueberry
Raspberry
Honeyberry
Blackberry (Thornless)
Elderberry
Gooseberry
Currant (red, black, & Pink)
Serviceberry
Highbush Cranberry
Blueberry bushes
Raspberry bushes
Elderberry bushes
Gooseberry bushes
Currant (red, black, & pink)
Serviceberry (juneberry) bushes
Highbush cranberry bushes
Blueberry bushes are a popular fruit crop that can be grown in Central New York with proper care and attention. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for growing blueberry bushes in this region:
Planting: Blueberry bushes should be planted in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late fall, after the leaves have dropped. They should be planted in a location with well-draining soil that has a pH between 4.0 and 5.5. The planting hole should be dug to the same depth as the root ball and two to three times as wide.
Soil: Blueberries prefer acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant with organic matter can help to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Sun: Blueberry bushes need full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. They should be planted in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water: Blueberry bushes require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. They should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning: Blueberry bushes should be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood, as well as any weak or crossing branches. This will help to promote new growth and increase fruit production.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow blueberry bushes in Central New York and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, nutritious fruit.
Raspberry bushes are a popular and easy-to-grow fruit crop that can thrive in central New York's climate. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for raspberry bushes:
Planting: Raspberry bushes should be planted in well-draining soil during the dormant season in either early spring or late fall. The ideal time to plant is when the soil is workable but not waterlogged. Space the bushes 2-3 feet apart in rows, with rows 6-8 feet apart.
Soil: Raspberry bushes prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. If the soil is heavy, it can be amended with organic matter to improve drainage and increase nutrient availability. Soil testing is recommended to determine if any nutrient deficiencies are present.
Sun: Raspberry bushes require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It is important to choose a planting location that receives adequate sunlight for optimal growth and fruit production.
Water: Raspberry bushes require regular watering, especially during dry periods. They prefer well-draining soil, but do not like to dry out completely. Irrigate deeply once a week or as needed to maintain consistent moisture levels. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote disease.
Overall, raspberry bushes are relatively low-maintenance and can be a rewarding addition to a home garden or small farm in central New York. With proper care and maintenance, raspberry bushes can produce delicious, juicy berries for many years to come.
Honeyberry bushes
Honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea) is a fruiting shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family. It is also known as Haskap or Blue Honeysuckle. Honeyberries are hardy plants that can grow in cold climates and are ideal for planting in areas like central New York. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for honeyberry bushes:
Planting: Honeyberries can be planted in the spring or fall when the plants are dormant. The soil should be well-drained and the site should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Soil: Honeyberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and well-draining. If the soil is heavy, it can be amended with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Sun: Honeyberries require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to produce fruit. Plant the bushes in a sunny spot that is protected from strong winds.
Water: Honeyberries require regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. However, it is important not to overwater the plants, as they are susceptible to root rot.
Pollination: Honeyberries require cross-pollination between different varieties to produce fruit. Plant at least two different varieties of honeyberry bushes within 50 feet of each other to ensure proper pollination.
Pruning: Honeyberry bushes require minimal pruning. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood in late winter or early spring. Thin out the oldest wood to encourage new growth.
Harvesting: Honeyberries ripen in early summer and are ready to harvest when they turn deep blue or purple. The fruit should be picked when it is slightly soft to the touch but not mushy.
Overall, honeyberry bushes are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance. With the right planting, soil, sun, and water conditions, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet and tangy berries from your honeyberry bushes.
Thornless blackberry bushes
Thornless blackberry bushes are a great addition to any backyard or garden. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements to consider for growing them in central New York:
Planting: Thornless blackberries should be planted in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are cool. They prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Plant them in a spot that gets full sun for the best results.
Soil: Thornless blackberry bushes prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They do best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sun: Thornless blackberry bushes need full sun to produce fruit. Choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Water: Thornless blackberries need consistent moisture to grow and produce fruit. Water deeply once a week during dry periods, and mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Pruning: Prune thornless blackberry bushes in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged canes, and cut back lateral branches to encourage new growth.
Harvesting: Thornless blackberries typically ripen in late summer. Harvest the berries when they are fully ripe, and handle them carefully to avoid damaging the delicate fruit.
Overall, thornless blackberry bushes are a low-maintenance fruit crop that can provide delicious berries with minimal effort.
Elderberries are a popular fruiting bush that can grow well in a variety of climates, including Central New York. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for elderberry bushes:
Planting:
Elderberry bushes can be planted in the early spring or fall when they are dormant.
They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
When planting, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball and loosen the soil around the edges of the hole to promote root growth.
Place the plant in the hole so that the crown (where the roots meet the stem) is level with the soil surface.
Backfill the hole with soil and water well.
Soil:
Elderberries prefer well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
Add organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and water retention.
Sun:
Elderberries prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Water:
Elderberries require regular watering, especially during their first year of growth.
They prefer moist, well-drained soil but do not tolerate standing water.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods.
Pruning:
Prune elderberry bushes in late winter or early spring before they start to grow.
Remove any damaged, dead, or diseased branches.
Cut back the remaining branches to about 1/3 of their length to encourage new growth and fruit production.
Harvesting:
Elderberries typically ripen in late summer or early fall.
Harvest the berries when they are deep purple and plump.
Use a gentle hand to remove the berries from the stems as they can bruise easily.
Gooseberries are small, tart fruits that grow on bushes and are popular for making jams, jellies, and desserts. Here are the planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for gooseberry bushes that grow well in central New York:
Planting: Gooseberry bushes should be planted in the early spring while they are still dormant, or in the late fall before the ground freezes. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They should be planted in a location that receives full sun or partial shade.
Soil: Gooseberry bushes prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. They do not tolerate waterlogged soil, so good drainage is essential. Adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can help improve soil fertility and drainage.
Sun: Gooseberry bushes thrive in full sun or partial shade. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce fruit. However, they can also tolerate some shade, especially in hot summer climates.
Water: Gooseberry bushes require regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. They prefer moist, but not waterlogged soil. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool. During dry spells, water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil conditions.
Pruning: Prune gooseberry bushes in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and thin out the center of the bush to improve air circulation and light penetration. Remove any shoots that grow from the base of the plant, as these will not produce fruit.
By following these planting, soil, sun, and water requirements, you can successfully grow gooseberry bushes in central New York.
Red, black, and pink currant bushes are relatively easy to grow in a climate like central New York. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for currant bushes:
Planting:
Plant the bushes in the early spring while they are still dormant or in the fall after the leaves have fallen.
Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and make sure the roots are not crowded.
Place the plant in the hole and cover the roots with soil, gently packing it down.
Water the plant well after planting.
Soil:
Currant bushes prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients.
Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting to improve its fertility.
Sun:
Currant bushes prefer full sun to partial shade.
Plant the bushes in a location where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Water:
Currant bushes require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.
Water deeply once a week to ensure the roots receive enough water.
Do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning:
Prune currant bushes in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Remove any damaged, dead, or diseased branches.
Cut back older branches to encourage new growth.
Remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Pests and diseases:
Currant bushes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
To prevent pest and disease problems, keep the bushes well-watered and fertilized and prune them regularly to promote good air circulation.
Serviceberry bushes, also known as Amelanchier, are native to North America and are a popular choice for landscaping and fruit production in central New York. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements that can help you grow healthy and productive serviceberry bushes:
Planting: Serviceberry bushes can be planted in spring or fall while the plants are still dormant. When planting, dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and add compost or other organic matter to the soil. This will improve soil drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention. Serviceberry bushes can be planted as individual bushes or in clusters, depending on your landscaping needs.
Soil: Serviceberry bushes prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soils with a pH range between 5.0 and 6.5. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, they do not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils. Adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf mulch, can help improve soil fertility, structure, and water-holding capacity.
Sun: Serviceberry bushes grow best in full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, especially in hot summer climates, but they will produce fewer flowers and fruits in shady conditions. Ideally, serviceberry bushes should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Water: Serviceberry bushes require moderate to regular watering, especially during the first few growing seasons. Newly planted bushes should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture level and weather conditions. Established bushes may only need supplemental watering during periods of prolonged drought or heat stress.
Serviceberry bushes are relatively low maintenance and do not require frequent pruning or fertilization. However, removing dead or diseased branches and thinning out crowded growth can help improve air circulation, sunlight penetration, and fruit production. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the bush can help retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.
Highbush cranberry, also known as American cranberry bush, is a large deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide, and is known for its attractive foliage, clusters of white flowers, and bright red berries that persist through the winter. Here are some planting, soil, sun, and water requirements for highbush cranberry bushes:
Planting: Highbush cranberry bushes can be planted in either spring or fall. When planting, choose a site with well-drained soil and good air circulation. Space the shrubs 6 to 10 feet apart.
Soil: Highbush cranberry bushes prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0.
Sun: Highbush cranberry bushes can grow in full sun to partial shade. They do best in areas with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Water: Highbush cranberry bushes need regular watering, especially during dry periods. They prefer consistently moist soil, but can tolerate some drought once established.
Maintenance: Prune highbush cranberry bushes in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. You can also prune to shape the shrub or control its size. Mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvest: The bright red berries of highbush cranberry bushes are edible, but are quite tart and are typically used for making jelly, jam, and sauces. The berries ripen in late summer to early fall and can be harvested after a frost, which helps to sweeten them.