As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that honeyberries are indeed easier to grow than blueberries. One of the main reasons for this is that honeyberry shrubs do not require acid soil like blueberries do. Blueberries thrive in acidic soil with a pH level between 4.0 and 5.5, which can be challenging to achieve and maintain for many gardeners. On the other hand, honeyberries are more adaptable and can tolerate a wider range of soil pH, typically between 5.5 and 7.5. This makes them a more forgiving option for gardeners who may not have access to or the means to adjust their soil’s acidity.
Another advantage of honeyberries is their cold hardiness. They are native to colder regions, such as Siberia and northern China, and can withstand harsh winters. In fact, honeyberries require a period of winter dormancy to properly fruit. This makes them an excellent choice for gardeners in colder climates, where growing blueberries may be more challenging due to their sensitivity to frost and winter damage.
In terms of care and maintenance, honeyberries are generally less demanding than blueberries. While both plants benefit from regular watering, blueberries have a higher water requirement and may suffer from drought stress more easily. Honeyberries, on the other hand, are more drought-tolerant and can handle periods of dryness better.
Honeyberries also have a longer harvest season compared to blueberries. Blueberries typically have a relatively short window of ripeness, usually lasting a few weeks. In contrast, honeyberries often have a longer harvest period, extending over several weeks or even a couple of months. This extended harvest time can be convenient for gardeners, allowing them to enjoy fresh honeyberries over a longer period and potentially have a more abundant yield.
In my personal experience, I have found honeyberries to be relatively low-maintenance plants. They have thrived in my garden without requiring excessive attention or specialized care. I have also appreciated the versatility of honeyberries, as they can be used in various culinary applications, from fresh eating to baking and jam-making.
To summarize, honeyberries are indeed easier to grow than blueberries due to their ability to tolerate a wider range of soil pH, their cold hardiness, lower water requirements, and longer harvest season. These factors make honeyberries a more accessible and rewarding option for gardeners, especially those in colder climates or with less acidic soil.
