Page 13 2025 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2025 berries! These berries can be eaten fresh off the bush or used in pies, jams, and jellies. Maintenance: Pruning is important to maintain the health and productivity of gooseberry bushes and to give them a chance to produce a bumper crop. However, if you do not have the time, these bushes are amazingly easy to maintain and leave them to produce this sweet berry. Cranberries Cranberries are well-suited to the cooler climate of northern Illinois. These berries thrive more in cooler areas that are not facing south. Soil: These berries grow in bogs or marshes and require acidic, sandy soil with consistent moisture, such as sand or peaty bogland. Planting/Harvesting Time: Cranberry plants need plenty of sunlight and can be planted in the fall from October to early November or in the spring from mid-April to the end of May. Harvesting usually takes place in the fall about three to four years after planting. The berries are commonly used in sauces, juices, and baked goods. Maintenance: Cranberries take time and patience and are susceptible to pests and diseases like fruit worms and mildew. With careful regular fertilizing, controlling weeds and providing adequate moisture cranberries can be a terrific addition to your garden. Currants Currants, both red and black varieties, thrive in the Illinois climate. This berry is one of the most underrated berries. This berry is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and flavor. This bush was banned in the US in the early 1900’s because it was linked to the spread of a white pine blister rust that threatened the timber industry. So, make sure you check with your local regulations before planting. Soil: These berries grow on small bushes that prefer well-drained soil while avoiding waterlogged areas. Currants need to grow in sun or partial shade and thrive on the afternoon shade while in warmer climates. Since this soil should be between 5.5 and 7.0 ph., a raised bed might be a better option for this berry. Planting/Harvesting Time: The best time to plant currants is in the early fall which allows the root to get established before winter. Currants are typically harvested in early to mid-summer and are known for their tart flavor, making them ideal for jams, jellies, and baking. Maintenance: This berry is extremely easy to grow, takes up little space and extraordinarily little effort while having a natural resistance to many pests and diseases. Regular pruning helps maintain the vigor and productivity of currant bushes.
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