I think the wineberry’s were a success as far as I can tell. This year produced two bowls like the one to the left. I’m writing this journal a the end of September. My goal is to review the results of this section of the garden and to record any improvements I want to make for next year. I guess you could call it a final lesson’s learned report.
The very first batch of berry’s I picked was on July 3rd. This yielded about one bowl as shown to the left. I currently have six bushes which all appear to be pretty healthy. They have grown really well since my initial planting several years ago. I choose the far right corner of our yard to plant these and hope to train them along the fence between our yard and the neighbor’s yard.
I’ve discovered wineberry’s to be rather easy to grow. When I initially got them from my friend they were no more than just a root and single stalk. Apparently the bushes have taken over part of her yard and was willing to give them away. She asked me how many I wanted and I guessed and said six without even knowing anything about them. I just planted them and let them go the first two years. Now that the bushes have had time to get established, it’s time to contain them in this part of the yard.
July 3rd Wineberry harvest
One challenging thing about picking this time of year in Chicago-Land, is the abundance of mosquitos. They are really bad just about the time you want to sit outside and enjoy picking these. Because it is also hot and humid, it’s really a bummer to have to put on a long sleeve shirt or repellant just to pick berries. I suffered through the mosquitoes but want to remember that a bug net would be a great idea for next year. If I get around to finding one or maybe I can just ask for one for my birthday or Christmas.
July 18th harvest, but it looks like I may not have picked them until the 23rd. Anyway, it’s about the middle to end of July when you can anticipate to harvest these. Just a mental note for next year.
That about sums up my notes and journal for the wineberry garden. As the plants start to spread, I’ll start to train them along the back of the yard. I’m hopping to get at least six more plants to spread in this area of the yard. Of course I’ll also need some more cedar stakes to keep them under control. If I can get another six plants that would double the wineberry garden. So that’s the goal for next year. Double the bushes and contain them in this corner of the yard.
Are you growing wineberries? What are your secrets? Any suggestion or ideas you might like to offer? How do you contain your bushes? Do you just let them spread? Please comment below.
Dave
