Goji Berry Garden Guide

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Goji Berry Care At A Glance

  • Medium to large sized shrubs grow 5 to 10 feet high and wide.
  • Plants are self-fruiting but can produce more and larger fruits with cross-pollination.
  • First fruit crops usually 2-3 years from planting.
  • Require well-drained, organically rich soil, in full sun to part shade.
  • Fruits are considered to be the "most nutritionally dense food on earth" by nutritionists.

Planting Instructions

  • Amend existing soil appropriately with organic material to help improve drainage.

    • NOTE: Proper drainage is critical for fruit-bearing plants to do well long-term. Do not use potting soil.

  • The hole size for potted plants should be 1-2 feet wide and just as deep as the existing rootball.
  • Plant with soil level in the pot matching the natural soil grade, making sure to not cover the crown.
  • Tip pruning can benefit the establishment of all woody shrubs.
  • Properly water new plants using the 1 inch per week rule for the entire first growing season.
    • 1 inch of water equates to about 2.5-3 gallons every other day.
    • Remove competitive grass & weeds and apply 2-3 inches of mulch or compost around the plant.
  • Cage or protect as needed to prevent predation from deer or rodents.

Varieties

  • Goji berries are Lycium barbarum, commonly known as Wolfberry, which are in the Solanaceae family.
  • Crimson Star™ is the most popular commercially grown Goji berry.
  • Big Lifeberry® & Sweet Lifeberry® are both popular Proven Winners® selections, we've offered in the past.

Care & Maintenance

  • Allow plants to grow for 2 years with little to no pruning.
  • Lifting lower branches helps to keep eventual fruits up off the ground.
  • Commercial growers will train Goji plants onto a wire cordon system, as you would for grapes.
  • Goji plants are drought tolerant but will appreciate supplemental watering through the establishment and during summer droughts, especially when plants are producing fruits.

Pests & Diseases

  • Little to no pest or major disease issues with Goji Berries.
  • Some growers report issues from spotted wing drosophila.
  • Immature plants may need protection from Japanese beetles.
  • Protect plants from deer or rabbits feeding.
  • Susceptible diseases include cosmetic fungal diseases like powdery mildew or Septoria.
    • Avoid by maintaining proper spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation.
    • Occasional applications of preventative bio-fungicide can also be used.

Fertilizing

Fertilize once per year in early spring with a balanced 10-10-10 or apply organic 3-5-3 at recommended product label rates.