Cranberry
vaccinium oxycoccos
Also known as: ["American cranberry","small cranberry"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to acidic bogs throughout the Northern Hemisphere, known for its tart, edible berries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Vaccinium |
| Botanical Name: | Vaccinium oxycoccos |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: moist, acidic bog gardens or raised beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining but moisture-retentive; must avoid waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Acidic, peat-rich, well-draining mix (e.g., 50% peat moss, 30% perlite, 20% compost).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of oldest stems each year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct morning sun, filtered afternoon light); adjust based on season and intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in dappled light indoors or under shade cloth outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid hot afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently during fruiting season
Maintain even moisture; avoid dry spells or waterlogging; use rainwater or distilled water to prevent pH imbalance.
Soil
acidic, peaty, well-drained soil
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–5.5).
Test pH regularly; use rainwater or distilled water; avoid alkaline amendments.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler nights; tolerates frost but not extreme heat.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain cool nights; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, acidic fertilizer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; dilute to half strength; stop in late summer to avoid new growth before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer yield best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage and acidity.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months; establish in pot or ground after 6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems at the base; light shaping of new growth to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to remove dead or weak stems, encourage bushier growth, and improve air circulation; focus on older wood to rejuvenate plant.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before bud break; remove dead or diseased wood; avoid over-pruning young plants.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter); avoid excessive size increase.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replace with fresh acidic potting mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; essential for maintaining soil health and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Use acidic soil mix; trim rootbound roots; ensure drainage holes are clear; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning; ensure good drainage; use acidic water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss or pine bark to lower pH; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use acidic compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; can lead to winter dieback if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; move potted plants to a cool, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; reduced flowering and fruiting; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage to cool environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use acidic fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; water before and after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use acidic, balanced fertilizer (e.g., rhododendron or azalea formula) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early summer); avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCranberries are generally non-toxic to cats when consumed in small to moderate amounts. They offer some nutritional benefits, but their high acidity can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicCranberries are generally considered safe for dogs when consumed in small to moderate amounts. They contain beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. However, excessive intake may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to their acidity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate quantities
Humans
Non-toxicVaccinium oxycoccos, commonly known as the common cranberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high acidity and tannin content. The berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them beneficial for health when consumed in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I grow cranberries?
A: Cranberries thrive in acidic, peaty soil with full sun to partial shade and require consistent moisture.
Q: Are cranberries good for health?
A: Yes, cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, known for urinary tract health benefits.
Q: Can cranberries be grown in containers?
A: Yes, they can be grown in containers with acidic soil and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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