The beloved summer berry. They are anticipated throughout the year. Most berries thrive in an outdoor garden. Some berries like blackberries, for example, grow well in a location that has a moderate amount of sunlight and cool temperatures.
Different parts of the country can have different growing conditions that produce different kinds of berries. For example, the northern climate will produce raspberries and blueberries while southern regions typically grow strawberries, blackberries, or both depending on the variety.
Berries are not only healthy but they can also be used in the production of drinks such as strawberry sparkle wine which is not only healthy but also has a touch of class and luxury.
There are a variety of berries that you can grow in your outdoor garden.
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are some of the most versatile berries that can be grown on either raised beds, gardens, or hanging containers. They can be grown in almost any region, soil and container. They adapt to many different climates but do best when the temperatures are cool, especially during their growing season. They are a great berry to grow indoors or outdoors throughout the year.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are berries that benefit from having well-drained soil, sun exposure, and slightly acidic conditions. They do best in places that have some acidic soil like Oregon, Maine, or New Jersey. There are a great choice for children as they are similar to raisins. They can be grown as ornamental fruiting bushes and bear fruit very abundantly.
3. Blackberries
Blackberries do best in locations with sunny exposure and well-drained soil. They can be cultivated in vertical gardens or large hanging baskets. They produce fruit well in areas with a cool winter and a hot summer. They produce fruit for about five months, making them one of the most productive berries out there. Their fruits are known for their tartness and juiciness which make them ideal for desserts as well as pies and jams.
4. Raspberries
Raspberries are one of the most flavorful and versatile berries of all. They do well in areas that have well-drained soils and a sunny location. Raspberries can be grown as an ornamental or for fruit production and consuming them is one of the ways to be healthy. They provide different compliments to the selection of berries you can grow, such as blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries.
5. Mulberries
Mulberries are another great choice for a berry to grow outdoors. They typically grow in areas that have acidic soil as well as a sunny exposure and cool temperatures. Mulberries also do well when they are on the north or south side of the house. They can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors throughout the year with good success provided they are propagated correctly through grafting.
What makes berries healthy?
Berries are considered some of the healthiest fruits out there. They have low levels of fat, calories, and sodium and high amounts of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Some varieties are also good sources of iron or calcium. Here are some of the healthy properties of berries.
1. Loaded with antioxidants
Berries have high amounts of antioxidants that can protect your body against cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses. These antioxidants are known to come from the berries themselves and not from the consumption of berries. Berries have a variety of antioxidants including anthocyanins (raspberry), ellagic acid (blackberry or mulberry), quercetin, or other flavonoids (blueberry) as well as salicylic acid or other phenolic acids.
2. High in fiber
Berries are very rich in fiber. They aid in digestion by acting as prebiotics and help to stir up intestinal flora. They also speed up the rate at which the gut bacteria break down foods and keep the digestive system healthy. Fiber is wonderful for maintaining a healthy digestive tract, but can also be great for decreasing blood pressure, improving blood cholesterol levels, as well as reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and coronary illnesses.
3. Help fight inflammation
One of the benefits of berries is the ability to fight inflammation. Berries contain compounds and antioxidants that can help quell inflammation in your body and reduce pain. They are especially good for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or even inflammatory bowel disease.
Berries are not only loaded with antioxidants but also vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and folic acid. These vitamins are essential to maintain high energy levels and help the body fight off infections. They also help to prevent osteoporosis by reducing bone loss.
Bottom Line
Berries are one of the healthiest fruits out there. They have high fiber, low amounts of fat, and many vitamins. By growing your own berries you can be sure about their quality and the ability to use them as fresh farm produce.
