Gogi Berry

Native to China and also known as Wolfberry Vine, these sweet and nutritious berries are eaten fresh, juiced or dried like raisins. It grows great on a trellis, or makes a beautiful fountain-shaped bush if trained through a tomato cage.

The light purple, bell-shaped flowers bloom in May and continue throughout the summer. Starting the third year, flowers are followed by neon orange-red berries. Somewhat tart but with a subtle flavor, the flavor is often described of the sweet version of a cherry tomato. When dried, they are even sweeter. 

SELECT YOUR KIT

PLANT ONLY:

$0.00

POTTING ESSENTIALS KIT:

$69.99

COMPLETE GROWER KIT:

$154.99

Plant Only + Complimentaries

Gogi Berry-Shrubb-
This kit includes: 1 Goji Berry seedling, 1 bag of rice hulls (for pest and weed protection), 1 plant tag

Goji Berry + Potting Essentials Kit

Gogi Berry-Shrubb-
This kit includes: 1 Goji Berry seedling, 1 Veradek Mason Kona Planter, 1 bag of Shrubb Signature Potting Mix, 1 shaker of Organic Plant Magic Plant Food, 1 bag of rice hulls (for pest and weed protection), 1 plant tag

Goji Berry + Complete Grower Kit

Gogi Berry-Shrubb-
This kit includes: 1 Goji Berry seedling, 1 Veradek Mason Kona Planter, 1 bag of Shrubb Signature Potting Mix, 1 shaker of Organic Plant Magic Plant Food, 1 bag of rice hulls (for pest and weed protection), 1 large potting mat, 1 pair of pruning shears, 1 gardening journal, 1 plant tag

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Where do I grow best?

How to care for me:

Self-Fertile

Goji Berries are self-fertile. This means that your tree will produce fruit even if there are not neighboring fruit trees around to cross-pollinate it.

Partial to Full-Sun

Goji Berries thrive in partial to full sun, thriving between 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and fruit production. Placing them in a location with ample sunlight exposure ensures vigorous growth, abundant flowering, and the development of flavorful fruits. They can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates, but reduced sunlight may lead to decreased fruit yield.

Water

Goji berries are relatively drought resistant, however they do still benefit from regular watering. Water until the soil is saturated and water comes out of the drainage holes. Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings helps to prevent issues with root-rot. Let the container dry until the soil is dry to the touch 1-2 inches down and the container is lighter in weight. A plant that has wilted can be receiving either too much or too little water. A good way to test if your plant needs water is to stick your finger 3 inches down into the soil. If you don't feel much moisture, it's time to water. If your finger comes out damp, best to give it some more time before watering.

Soil Nutrients

Start fertilizing your potted goji berry plant in early spring as new growth emerges, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Continue fertilizing every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season until late summer or early fall. Cease fertilization during the winter dormancy period, resuming in early spring when new growth begins.

Dormancy

Goji berries are generally considered to be cold-hardy plants and can tolerate temperatures below freezing, however, they do not have specific chill hour requirements like some fruit trees. While they can benefit from a period of dormancy during the winter months, especially in cooler climates, they are adaptable and can grow in a wide range of temperature conditions. In regions with milder winters, goji berries may not experience a significant dormancy period but can still produce fruit successfully.

Harvest

Goji berries are typically ready for harvest in late summer to early fall, when they have turned bright red and are plump and firm to the touch. To harvest, gently pick the ripe berries from the plant, being careful not to damage the delicate branches. It's best to harvest goji berries in the morning when they are cool and have the highest sugar content. Avoid harvesting berries that are still green or underripe, as they may be tart and less flavorful. Please note that goji berries naturally tear at the stem when they are picked, so they don’t store well. They are best eaten same-day, or are very often dried and added to granola or salads!

Pruning

Prune goji berry vines in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Start by removing any dead or damaged branches, as well as any tangled or congested growth to improve airflow and light penetration. Encourage lateral branching by selectively pruning back long, vigorous shoots to stimulate the growth of new side branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as goji berries produce fruit on new growth, and excessive pruning may reduce fruiting potential.

Pests and Disease

Pests and disease often vary greatly by region. In terms of insects, neem oil can combat many problems. If you are unsure, send us a photo of your plant and the problem, and we'll do our best to identify it and suggest more specific solutions!

Growing in Less Ideal Climates

While the region indicated on the map above specifies where this plant grows best, the virtue of growing plants in pots is that, with a little elbow grease, you can create your own environment. These are our tips for anyone attempting to grow alpine strawberries in other climates.

Colder Regions

To overwinter a potted goji berry in a particularly cold location, consider insulating the pot with materials such as bubble wrap or burlap to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Place the pot in a sheltered location, such as against a south-facing wall or near the house, where it can benefit from radiant heat. If your climate gets extremely cold, consider keeping it in an unheated garage during the dormant season.

Hotter Regions

To grow goji berries in particularly hot climates, choose a partially shaded location with morning sun and filtered light. Protect plants from extreme heat with shade during the hottest parts of the day.