Live Blue Haskap Honeyberry Plant, 4 to 6 Inch Tall

What is Haskap (Honeyberry)?

Haskap (Lonicera caerulea) is a cold-hardy, early-fruiting berry shrub native to northern regions. The berries taste like a mix of blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry.

1. Climate & Location

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 2–8 (very cold tolerant)

• Chill requirement: High — thrives in cold winters

• Sun:

  • Best: Full sun (6–8 hours/day)

  • Tolerates: Light partial shade (less fruit)

2. Soil Requirements

• Drainage: Well-draining soil is critical

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0)

• Soil type: Loam or sandy loam is ideal

• Improve soil by mixing in:

  • Compost

  • Aged manure

  • Leaf mold

3. Planting

• When to plant:

  • Early spring (best) or fall

• Spacing:

  • 4–6 feet apart

• Depth:

  • Plant at the same depth as the nursery pot

• Water well after planting

⚠️ Important:
Most haskap varieties require cross-pollination. Plant at least two different compatible varieties for fruit production.

4. Watering

• First year:

  • Water deeply 1–2 times per week

• Established plants:

  • Moderate watering; don’t let soil dry out completely

• Avoid waterlogged soil

Mulching (2–3 inches) helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

5. Fertilizing

• Early spring:

  • Compost or a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10)

• Avoid over-fertilizing—too much nitrogen = leafy growth, fewer berries

6. Pruning

• First 2–3 years:

  • Minimal pruning

• After year 3:

  • Remove dead, weak, or crossing branches

  • Prune right after harvest or in late winter

• Goal: Open center for airflow and light

7. Flowering & Fruiting

• Flowers appear very early in spring

• Frost-tolerant blooms (down to about 20°F / -6°C)

• Berries ripen late spring to early summer

• Harvest when berries are:

  • Deep blue

  • Soft and sweet (not tart)

8. Pests & Diseases

Generally very low maintenance.

Possible issues:

• Birds (biggest threat!) → use netting

• Aphids or mites (rare)

• Powdery mildew (improve airflow)

9. Winter Care

• Extremely cold-hardy

• Mulch in late fall to protect roots

• No wrapping needed, even in harsh winters

10. Expected Growth & Yield

• Size:

  • 4–6 ft tall and wide

• Fruiting begins:

  • Year 2–3

• Full production:

  • Year 4–5

• Yield:

  • 5–15 lbs per mature plant (variety dependent)

Quick Tips for Success

✔ Plant more than one variety
✔ Full sun = sweeter berries
✔ Net against birds
✔ Be patient—yields improve every year

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