Lingonberry
Vaccinium oxycoccos · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lingonberry: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring (April to June), pink to white flowers
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall, trailing habit
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -30°C)
- Origin
- Cold and humid zones of Eurasia and North America
- Soil type
- Acidic, peaty, well-drained
Care
Watering
The cranberry loves humid and acidic environments. Keep the soil constantly moist, especially during growth and fruiting periods. Regular rainwater or non-calcareous water is ideal. Avoid standing water which promotes rot.
Light exposure
Place your cranberry in full sun or partial shade to optimize flowering and fruit production. It tolerates shaded areas but produces fruit less generously. Protect it from overly dry winds.
Soil and substrate
Peaty, acidic soil (pH 4 to 5.5) is essential. Enrich the soil with blonde peat or acidic organic matter. Ensure light drainage but never prolonged drying: the plant prefers naturally moist conditions.
Fertilizer
Use minimal fertilizer: a moderate application of acidifying fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Excess nitrogen harms fruiting. Prefer light organic matter or fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
Pruning and maintenance
Pruning is not essential. Simply remove dead stems or invasive growth in late winter. Light maintenance helps the plant maintain a nice compact shape.
Diseases and pests
Cranberries are generally robust. Watch for root rot if waterlogging occurs. Some fungi can affect foliage in overly humid conditions: ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
The common cranberry has been used for centuries by northern peoples to preserve its fruit during long winters. In the Middle Ages, it was prized for its supposed healing properties, and in the 19th century, sailors took it as a reserve to prevent scurvy. Today, production bogs in cold zones make it one of the major crops of boreal regions, particularly in North America and Scandinavia.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CowberryVaccinium vitis-idaea
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- BearberryArctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Strawberry treeArbutus unedo
- Tree HeathErica arborea
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.