Description
Some partnerships work better than others, and the marriage of pineapple and strawberry flavors is just perfect. Sweet, tart, and tropically tantalising – this white berry is all sorts of delicious.
Pineberry berries (Fragaria ananassa) are small and white or very pale-pink and packed with flavour. Despite tasting a lot like pineapple, they’re not related to a pineapple at all. They are also not a strawberry (but are descendants) and are not genetically modified.
Some of their health benefits include: Promoting a healthy hear; Preventing congenital disabilities; Boosting your immune system; Preventing oxidative stress; Strengthening bones and teeth.
Harvesting
These scrumptious berries are ready to be picked and enjoyed in spring and summer. Simply pluck them and enjoy.
Position
Pineberries can be grown in pots or in the garden as they don’t need much space. When planting them, ensure that you only cover the roots in the soil and not the plant’s crown. Interestingly, the taste and quality of the berries won’t change much whether they are grown in the sun or a greenhouse. However, sunshine may give them a blue tinge.
Size
This plant will reach a height of between 20 and 30 cm and anything from 25 to 45 cm wide. So, when planting, give them enough room to spread sufficiently.
Soil type
The best soil for healthy pineberries is sandy or loamy, which drains well and contains nutrients. If your soil has more clay or lacks nutrients, add compost to it. They require a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 so add at least one bag of acid compost.
Fertilising
Use our slow-release, nitrogen-rich Berry/All plant Fertiliser. Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.
Mulch
Apply a thin layer of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Watering
Give your plants 2.5 to 3 cms weekly to moisten the soil. Adjust this amount if there has been rain.
