Page 10 2025 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2025 Continued -- Growing berries in your garden can be a delightful and rewarding experience, however finding berries that are the easiest and most bearing in Illinois is a little more of a challenge when it comes to the care and pests. If you want a variety of berries to put in your oatmeal or salad on a daily basis, then picking up containers at the grocery store is your best bet. But if you want the satisfaction of growing your own, you should do your research and start out small. In the beginning you might not have the same wide variety or options that a grocery store can give you, but you will have the glory and cost savings of having your own when you want them. Strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are the most popular choices for home gardeners due to their delicious taste and versatility in various culinary applications, Strawberries Strawberries are herbaceous plants that produce small, red, sweet fruits. They grow low to the ground and have a relatively short growing season. The fruits are typically juicy and can be eaten fresh or used in various recipes. Have a berry good year growing Strawberries, Raspberries, and Blackberries Planting: Strawberries are typically planted in early spring, after the last frost. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Plant the strawberries about eighteen inches apart in rows spaced twenty-four inches apart. Harvesting: Strawberries are usually ready for harvest 4 to 6 weeks after flowering. Harvesting can continue throughout late spring and early summer. Freezing: Wash and hull the strawberries, then spread them on a baking sheet to freeze. Transfer to airtight containers once frozen. Jam: Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a pot. Cook until thickened and store in sterilized jars. Drying: Slice strawberries and dry them in a dehydrator. Store in airtight container Raspberries Raspberries are perennial plants that produce small, sweet, and sometimes tart fruits. They can be red, black, purple, or yellow, depending on the variety. Raspberries grow on canes and can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season. They are often used in jams, jellies, and desserts. Planting: Raspberries can be planted in early spring or late fall. Select a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Plant raspberry canes 2 to 3 feet apart, with row spacing about eight feet.
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