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Grow Honeyberries from Seed: A Beginner’s Guide

Honeyberries (also known as haskaps) are an underrated yet incredibly hardy berry, perfect for cold climates. They’re delicious, packed with antioxidants, and much easier to grow than blueberries, making them a great alternative for gardeners looking for low-maintenance fruit bushes. While most people start honeyberries from nursery plants, growing them from seed is an affordable and rewarding way to expand your garden.


honeyberries growing on a bush

Step 1: Collecting or Buying Honeyberry Seeds


You can grow honeyberries from either store-bought seeds or seeds collected from fresh berries. Here’s how to extract seeds from fresh honeyberries:

  1. Mash the berries in a bowl and add water. The viable seeds will sink, while the pulp and unviable seeds float.

  2. Strain the good seeds and spread them on a paper towel to dry for 24 hours.

  3. Store in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant.

If purchasing seeds, check whether they need stratification (cold treatment) before planting, as this varies between seed suppliers.

Step 2: Stratification – Preparing the Seeds for Germination


Honeyberry seeds require a cold period to break dormancy and germinate properly. If you live in a cold climate like Ireland, you can simply plant them outdoors in autumn, and nature will take care of the stratification for you. However, if you’re starting them indoors or in a warmer climate, follow these steps:

  1. Dampen a paper towel and place the seeds inside.

  2. Seal them in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 60-90 days.

  3. Check periodically to ensure they don’t dry out or become moldy.

Step 3: Planting Honeyberry Seeds

Once stratified, the seeds are ready for planting. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix with peat moss or coconut coir to retain moisture.

  2. Sprinkle the seeds on the surface of a tray or small pots filled with moist soil.

  3. Press them gently into the soil without burying them completely.

  4. Mist lightly with water and cover the container with a humidity dome or plastic wrap.

  5. Place in a bright, warm location (18-22°C) with indirect sunlight.

Step 4: Caring for Honeyberry Seedlings


Honeyberry seeds typically germinate within 2-6 weeks. Once they sprout, follow these care tips:

  • Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water gently to prevent disturbing the delicate roots.

  • Provide bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or grow light (12-16 hours per day) is ideal.

  • Thin out weaker seedlings once they grow a few sets of true leaves.

  • Transplant into larger pots once they are a few inches tall.

Step 5: Transplanting Honeyberry Seedlings Outdoors


Once your seedlings are strong enough (usually after a few months), you can begin hardening them off by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions. Honeyberries thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0). Unlike blueberries, they are much less fussy about soil acidity, making them easier to grow in various environments.


Common Issues and Troubleshooting

  1. Slow germination – Ensure seeds underwent proper stratification and were kept moist during the process.

  2. Mold or damping-off – Improve airflow, use a sterile seed-starting mix, and avoid excessive moisture.

  3. Weak or leggy seedlings – Increase light exposure to prevent stretching.

Why Grow Honeyberries?


Honeyberries are one of the best berry crops for cold climates. They are incredibly hardy (tolerating temperatures down to -40°C), require little maintenance, and produce fruit earlier than most berries. Their taste is often described as a mix between blueberries and raspberries, making them perfect for fresh eating, jams, and baking.


Want to explore more gardening tips? Visit Earthling.com for more insightful blogs and discover our exciting range of plants, seeds, and tools to help you grow a thriving garden!



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