Haskaps, scientifically known as Lonicera caerulea, are deciduous shrubs that produce small, flavorful berries commonly referred to as honeyberries or blue honeysuckles. These berries are known for their unique combination of sweet and tangy flavors, reminiscent of a blend between blueberries and raspberries. Haskaps are prized not only for their delicious taste but also for their nutritional value, being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These hardy plants are well-suited to various climates and soil types, making them increasingly popular for home gardens and commercial cultivation. With their attractive blue-purple berries and adaptability, haskaps are not only a delightful addition to culinary creations like jams and desserts but also contribute to a healthy and diverse fruit garden.
How to Plant Haskaps
When planting haskap bushes, start by selecting a suitable location with well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil and full to partial sun exposure. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost for fertility, and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions. Plant haskap in early spring or fall when dormant, spacing them 4 to 6 feet apart. Dig a hole large enough for the root ball and plant at the same depth as in the nursery container.
Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and control weeds. Prune haskap plants to promote a strong, open canopy and remove any dead or damaged wood, following specific cultivar guidelines.
Haskpa Pollination
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, and monitor for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly. With proper care, haskap bushes can thrive, producing sweet and tangy berries that are not only delicious but also rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Potential pollinators will be listed in the charts below:
Tundra
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Aurora |
Boreal Blizzard |
Tundra |
Honey Bee |
Boreal Beast |
Borealis |
|
|
Indigo Series |
|
|
Boreal Beauty |
Borealis
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Aurora |
Boreal Blizzard |
Tundra |
Honey Bee |
Boreal Beast |
Borealis |
|
|
Indigo Series |
|
|
Boreal Beauty |
Indigo Haskap Series
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Aurora |
Boreal Blizzard |
Tundra |
Honey Bee |
Boreal Beast |
Borealis |
|
|
Indigo Series |
|
|
Boreal Beauty |
Aurora
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Tundra |
Boreal Beast |
Aurora |
Borealis |
|
Boreal Blizzard |
Indigo Series |
|
Boreal Beauty |
Honey Bee |
|
|
Honey Bee
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Tundra |
Boreal Blizzard |
Honey Bee |
Borealis |
Boreal Beast |
Boreal Beauty |
Indigo Series |
|
|
Aurora |
|
|
Boreal Blizzard
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Boreal Beast |
Tundra |
Aurora |
|
Borealis |
Boreal Blizzard |
|
Indigo Series |
|
|
Honey Bee |
|
|
Boreal Beauty |
|
Boreal Beast
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Boreal Blizzard |
Borealis |
Tundra |
Boreal Beauty |
Indigo Series |
Boreal Beast |
|
Aurora |
|
|
Honey Bee |
|
Boreal Beauty
Best Pollinator
|
Average Pollinator
|
Poor Pollinator
|
Boreal Beast |
Boreal Blizzard |
Tundra |
|
|
Borealis |
|
|
Indigo Series |
|
|
Aurora |
|
|
Honey Bee |
|
|
Boreal Beauty |