Cranberry

Cranberries need very acidic soil, around pH 4.0-5.5, with a sandy, organic root zone that stays moist but aerated. Feed sparingly because excess nitrogen favors runners over fruiting uprights; a home bed does not need flooding.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

2–3 years

Tips

• Set rooted cranberry plants about 12 inches apart in a weed-free acidic bed and let runners establish before expecting substantial fruit.
• Keep the shallow root zone consistently moist with frequent checks during hot weather, but do not leave plants in stagnant water.
• Use small, soil-test-guided applications of acid-compatible fertilizer rather than heavy nitrogen feeding.
• Guide runners into bare patches and thin excessive tangled growth on established beds, removing rotted berries promptly.
• Harvest firm berries once they develop their cultivar's mature red color, cutting a few open to check for brown seeds.

Plant rooted cranberry cuttings or nursery plugs in spring in a prepared acidic, moisture-retentive bed.