Goji Berry seeds- grow your own for your health
Shanghai Express Red Goji Berry Seeds-Lycium barbarum)
Black Goji Berry Seeds Lycium ruthenicum
**Description of Goji Berry
**Plant Description:**
1. **Appearance:** Goji berry is a deciduous shrub with long, arching branches that can reach a height of 6 to 10 feet or more. The leaves are lance-shaped and typically a vibrant green.
2. **Flowers:** In late spring to early summer, the shrub produces small, trumpet-shaped, purple or lavender flowers. These flowers are attractive to pollinators like bees.
3. **Berries:** The fruit, known as goji berries or wolfberries, are small, and resemble raisins when dried. They have a sweet-tart taste and are often consumed fresh or dried.
**Nutritional Content and Benefits:**
1. **Nutrients:** Goji berries are rich in nutrients, including vitamins A and C, fiber, and various antioxidants. They also contain essential minerals such as iron and zinc.
2. **Health Benefits:** Goji berries are believed to provide various health benefits.
**How to Grow Goji Berry:**
**Climate and Soil:**
1. **Climate:** Goji berries thrive in temperate climates but can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They are hardy plants that can withstand cold winters.
2. **Soil:** Goji berries prefer well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH. They can tolerate various soil types but perform best in soils rich in organic matter.
**Planting:**
1. **Propagation:** Goji berries can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or purchased as young plants. Starting from seeds is a common method.
2. **Seed Starting:**
Stratification: Black Goji Berry Seeds need to undergo cold stratification for around 1 to 2 months to break dormancy. Place seeds in damp sand or peat moss and refrigerate at 35-40°F (2-5°C).
RED Goji Berry Seeds
- Soak the seeds in water for a few hours before planting.
- Plant the seeds in seed-starting trays or pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Maintain a consistently moist environment until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 1-2 weeks.
- Transplant the seedlings to larger pots or directly into the garden once they are large enough to handle.
**Cultivation:**
1. **Spacing:** Plant goji berry shrubs 4 to 6 feet apart to allow for their spreading habit.
2. **Sunlight:** Goji berries prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
3. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the plant's first year. Once established, goji berries are somewhat drought-tolerant.
4. **Pruning:** Prune the shrub to shape it and encourage airflow. Remove dead or weak branches.
**Interesting Facts:**
1. **Cultural History:** Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. They are often associated with longevity and are sometimes referred to as the "longevity fruit."
2. **Adaptability:** Goji berries are known for their adaptability to various climates and soil conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of gardeners.
3. **Drying and Consumption:** Goji berries are commonly consumed in their dried form. They can be added to cereals, trail mixes, smoothies, or eaten as a snack.
4. **Ornamental Value:** Beyond their edible berries, goji plants have ornamental value with their arching branches and attractive flowers, making them a pleasing addition to a garden landscape.
Growing goji berries can be a rewarding experience, offering both nutritional benefits and ornamental appeal. Whether grown for their healthful berries or the beauty of the shrub itself, goji berries can be a unique addition to your garden.