Top 10 honeyberry shrub varieties for your garden

Introduction to Honeyberries: A Berry of the Future

Honeyberries, also known scientifically as Lonicera caerulea, are a rapidly growing sensation in the world of small fruit cultivation. Often referred to as haskap, edible honeysuckle, or simply blue honeysuckle, these hardy shrubs offer an exciting alternative to traditional berries like blueberries and raspberries. Their unique sweet-tart flavor profile, often described as a blend of blueberry, raspberry, and plum, coupled with their exceptional cold hardiness and early ripening season, makes them an attractive choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

What sets honeyberries apart is their remarkable resilience. They can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and are typically one of the first fruits to ripen in late spring or early summer, often preceding strawberries and blueberries. This early harvest window provides a welcome boost of fresh flavor when many other fruits are still developing. Furthermore, honeyberries are exceptionally disease-resistant and adaptable to various soil conditions, making them a relatively low-maintenance addition to any garden.

However, a crucial aspect of successful honeyberry cultivation is understanding pollination. Most honeyberry varieties are self-incompatible, meaning they require cross-pollination from a different variety to produce a good crop. This guide will delve into the top 10 honeyberry shrub varieties, highlighting their unique characteristics, optimal growing conditions, and importantly, their compatibility for successful pollination, ensuring you can cultivate a bountiful harvest of these delightful berries.

Understanding Honeyberry Pollination: The Key to a Bountiful Harvest

Before diving into specific varieties, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental principle of honeyberry pollination. As mentioned, most honeyberry cultivars are self-incompatible. This means that while a single plant might produce a few scattered berries on its own, planting two or more different varieties in proximity is crucial for achieving significant fruit production. The pollen from one variety must be transferred to the flower of another for fertilization to occur.

The ideal scenario is to plant at least two, and preferably three, different honeyberry varieties that bloom around the same time. This ensures a robust pollination process, leading to larger, plumper berries and a much higher yield. When selecting varieties, pay close attention to their recommended pollination partners. Nurseries often provide this information, specifying which varieties are good pollinators for others.

The flowers of honeyberry shrubs are typically pollinated by bees and other insects. Their early blooming period means they can benefit from early-season pollinators, even when other flowering plants may not be as abundant. The more diverse your honeyberry plantings, the more robust your pollination will be, ultimately translating into a more abundant and delicious harvest.

Key Facts and Comparison of Top Honeyberry Varieties

To help you make informed decisions for your garden, here’s a table outlining key characteristics of some of the most popular and promising honeyberry varieties. This comparison focuses on factors relevant to home gardeners, such as berry size, flavor profile, ripening time, and pollination compatibility.

Top 10 Honeyberry Shrub Varieties for Your Garden

Here’s a closer look at ten of the best honeyberry varieties for home gardeners, considering their unique attributes and suitability for different gardening preferences:

1. ‘Aurora’

Developed in Canada, ‘Aurora’ is a standout for its large, oblong berries with a sweet, complex flavor profile that hints at cherry and blueberry. It’s known for its good disease resistance and consistent yields. ‘Aurora’ ripens mid to late season, making it a valuable late-season producer. It is an excellent pollinator for many other varieties, and is ideally pollinated by ‘Borealis’ or ‘Honeybee’.

2. ‘Borealis’

Another Canadian cultivar, ‘Borealis’ produces large, flavorful berries that are a satisfying blend of sweet and tart with distinct plum undertones. These berries are often described as juicy and are well-suited for fresh consumption and processing. ‘Borealis’ ripens early to mid-season, offering a delicious early harvest. It thrives when cross-pollinated with ‘Aurora’ or ‘Honeybee’.

3. ‘Honeybee’

As its name suggests, ‘Honeybee’ is known for its sweeter flavor profile, with less tartness than many other varieties. The berries are medium-sized and have a pleasant, mild sweetness that makes them excellent for eating fresh. This variety is also a very effective pollinator for other honeyberries and ripens early to mid-season. It pairs well with ‘Northline’ and ‘Aurora’.

4. ‘Northline’

‘Northline’ is a popular choice for its productivity and adaptability. It produces medium to large berries with a classic sweet-tart honeyberry flavor, often compared to blueberries. This variety is quite hardy and disease-resistant, making it a reliable performer. ‘Northline’ ripens from early to mid-season and is a good pollinator for ‘Honeybee’ and ‘Aurora’.

5. ‘Tundra’

Developed in Saskatchewan, Canada, ‘Tundra’ is renowned for its exceptional cold hardiness and early ripening time. The berries are medium to large with a good sweet-tart balance. This variety is very vigorous and disease-resistant. Its early ripening makes it one of the first honeyberries ready for harvest, typically in early spring. ‘Tundra’ benefits from pollination from varieties like ‘Aurora’ or ‘Borealis’.

6. ‘Indigo Gem’

This variety is celebrated for its very mild, sweet flavor, making it a favorite for those who prefer less tartness in their berries. ‘Indigo Gem’ produces medium-sized berries and is a good performer in various climates. It ripens mid-season and is ideally pollinated by ‘Indigo Treat’ or ‘Honeybee’.

7. ‘Indigo Treat’

Complementing ‘Indigo Gem’, ‘Indigo Treat’ offers a slightly more tart, juicy berry with a sweet finish. The berries are medium-sized and are well-suited for both fresh eating and jams. This variety also ripens mid-season and is a good pollinator for ‘Indigo Gem’.

8. ‘Wojtek’

Originating from Poland, ‘Wojtek’ is known for its very large berries and a flavor profile that evokes raspberries. It’s a vigorous grower with good disease resistance. ‘Wojtek’ ripens early to mid-season, providing a substantial early harvest. It is well-pollinated by ‘Aurora’ or ‘Borealis’.

9. ‘Seru’

‘Seru’ is a Russian variety that offers a slightly acidic, sweet flavor reminiscent of blueberries. The berries are medium-sized and the plant is known for its good vigor and productivity. It ripens early to mid-season and performs well when cross-pollinated with other early to mid-season bloomers like ‘Aurora’ or ‘Borealis’.

10. ‘Zlata’

Meaning “golden” in Russian, ‘Zlata’ is a variety that ripens early in the season, offering a sweet and mild flavor that is particularly appealing for fresh consumption. The berries are medium to large. This variety is a good choice for gardeners looking for an early-season sweet treat and pairs well with ‘Honeybee’ and ‘Northline’.

Planting and Care for Your Honeyberry Bushes

Successful honeyberry cultivation involves more than just selecting the right varieties; proper planting and ongoing care are essential for a thriving and productive garden.

Site Selection

Honeyberry bushes are quite adaptable but perform best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun generally leads to better fruit production and more vigorous growth. They prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). While they can tolerate a range of soil types, amending heavy clay soils with compost or organic matter will improve drainage and aeration. Avoid planting in areas where water tends to collect.

Planting Procedures

• Spacing: Space honeyberry plants approximately 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) apart. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation, which helps prevent diseases, and provides room for the plants to reach their mature size. Remember to plant at least two different varieties in close proximity for cross-pollination.
• Planting Depth: Plant honeyberry bushes at the same depth they were in their nursery container. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Gently loosen the roots if they are circling the pot.
• Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season, while the plants establish their root systems.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch (5-7.5 cm) layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, straw, or compost, around the base of the plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the main stem to prevent rot.

Ongoing Care

• Watering: Once established, honeyberry bushes are relatively drought-tolerant. However, consistent moisture is crucial during dry spells, especially when the fruit is developing. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either from rain or irrigation.
• Fertilizing: Honeyberries are not heavy feeders. In the spring, before new growth begins, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a top dressing of compost. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of fruit production.
• Pruning: Pruning is important for maintaining the health, vigor, and productivity of honeyberry bushes. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring while the plants are dormant.

Young Plants: For the first few years, focus on establishing a strong framework. Remove any crossing, rubbing, or damaged branches.
Mature Plants: Once the plants are mature (after about 3-4 years), prune to remove old, unproductive wood, thin out crowded branches, and maintain an open, vase-like shape. Aim to remove about one-third of the older stems each year.

• Pest and Disease Management: Honeyberries are generally very resistant to pests and diseases. However, occasional issues can arise. Birds may be attracted to the ripening berries, so netting may be necessary if bird damage becomes a problem. Aphids can sometimes infest young shoots, but they rarely cause significant damage. Good air circulation from proper spacing and pruning helps prevent fungal issues.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Honeyberries

The reward for your efforts comes during the harvest season, which typically begins in late May or June, depending on your climate and the specific variety. Honeyberries are ready to harvest when they have developed their full color and are slightly soft to the touch. Unlike some berries that drop when ripe, honeyberries tend to stay on the bush, making them easier to pick.

When to Harvest

• Look for berries that have a deep blue color. Some varieties may have a slight purplish hue.
• Gently squeeze a berry; it should yield slightly to pressure, indicating ripeness.
• Taste a few berries to confirm they have reached their optimal flavor. They should be sweet with a pleasant tartness.

Harvesting Techniques

• Honeyberries can be hand-picked directly from the bush. The berries detach easily when ripe.
• You can also place a tarp or collection tray beneath the branches and gently shake the branches to harvest larger quantities. Be mindful that some less ripe berries might also fall.
• Harvest berries in batches as they ripen to ensure you are picking only the fully mature fruit.

Storage and Uses

Freshly picked honeyberries are a delight on their own. Their unique flavor also lends itself to a variety of culinary uses:

• Fresh Consumption: Eat them straight from the bush for a healthy and delicious snack.
• Smoothies: Their vibrant color and flavor make them an excellent addition to smoothies.
• Jams and Jellies: Honeyberries are perfect for making preserves, jams, and jellies, especially when combined with other fruits.
• Pies and Crumbles: Use them in baked goods like pies, crumbles, and muffins.
• Juices and Wines: Their juice can be used in beverages or for making wine.

Honeyberries can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, they freeze exceptionally well. Simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen honeyberries can be used for smoothies, baking, and sauces throughout the year.

Pros and Cons of Growing Honeyberries

While honeyberries offer numerous advantages, like any fruit plant, they also have some considerations for potential growers.

Conclusion: Embracing the Honeyberry Trend

Honeyberries are a truly remarkable addition to the home garden, offering an early, nutritious, and delicious harvest with impressive resilience. By understanding the importance of cross-pollination and selecting complementary varieties from the top-performing cultivars discussed in this guide, you can ensure a bountiful yield of these unique berries.

From the sweet complexity of ‘Aurora’ and ‘Borealis’ to the milder notes of ‘Indigo Gem’ and ‘Honeybee’, there is a honeyberry variety to suit nearly every palate and gardening preference. With their straightforward care requirements and remarkable adaptability, honeyberry shrubs are an accessible and rewarding choice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to expand their fruit-growing horizons. Start planning your honeyberry patch today and prepare to savor the sweet taste of early summer.