“What the heck are those?” seems to be the common response when I mention haskaps – or honeyberries, as they’re also known. This small fruit deserves better though! They’re early – often ripening even before strawberries in early spring. They’re sweet, but with a tang like raspberries or blackberries. And they’re incredibly good for you, to boot! Oh, and did I mention they come into bearing rather quickly?
I’ll be planting out a couple bushes this season, Borealis and Berry Blue, but if I enjoy the fruits I could see adding to this collection in coming seasons. Researchers out of Saskatchewan are constantly coming up with new varieties — sweeter and larger, easier to pick, more prolific. Who knows what might be available in just another year or two?
Part of the joy of gardening is trying new things. Can’t wait to get these into the ground this spring!
Beane Hill Farm 