Want to grow your own goji berries?
It’s easier than you think!
With these 9 simple tactics, you’ll have a thriving goji berry plant in no time.
Fresh, home-grown berries are just a few steps away.
Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Spot
First things first, you’ll need to pick the perfect spot for your goji berry plants. They love lots of sunlight, so find a place in your garden where they can soak up at least 6 hours of sun each day.
If you’re growing them indoors, a sunny windowsill will do the trick. Don’t stress too much about soil type; gojis are pretty flexible, but well-draining soil is a plus.
Get the Soil Ready
Before planting, make sure to prep your soil. Dig in some compost or well-rotted manure to give your goji berries a nutrient boost.
Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.5 to 7.0 is ideal). If you’re not sure about your soil’s pH, you can grab a test kit from a garden center.
Planting Your Goji Berries
Now it’s time to plant! Space your goji berry plants about 5 feet apart to give them room to grow.
Dig a hole that’s about twice the size of the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and cover it with soil. Give your plants a good drink of water right after planting to help them settle in.
Keep Them Watered
Goji berries need regular watering, especially during their first year. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Once they’re established, they can handle short dry spells, but during high temps or drought, it’s best to water them weekly. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Feed Your Plants
Your goji berry plants will appreciate a little extra nutrition. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Fish emulsion or seaweed fertilizers work great too. Remember, healthy plants are happy plants, so don’t skip this step!
Support Their Growth
As your goji berries grow, they might need some support. Use stakes or a trellis to keep them upright, especially if you’re in a windy area.
This will help prevent damage and make harvesting easier. Tie the stems loosely to the supports to avoid damaging the plant.
Prune for Health
Pruning isn’t just for roses! Trim your goji berry plants in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.
This encourages new growth and helps keep the plants healthy. If your plant gets too bushy, a little pruning can improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Watch for Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. A quick spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil can keep these nuisances in check.
Regularly inspect your plants, and act fast if you spot any issues. Healthy plants are less likely to get sick, so stick to your watering and feeding schedule!
Enjoy the Harvest
After some TLC, your goji berry plants will reward you with lots of tasty berries. Harvest them in late summer or early fall when they’re bright red and slightly soft to the touch.
Eat them fresh, add them to smoothies, or dry them for a sweet snack. You’ve earned it!