Caper

Capers can be eaten when fertilized, or before fertilization. There are two ways to harvest capers: harvesting the buds, and harvesting the berries. What we normally think of as a traditional “caper” is the bud, and does not require pollination to be produced. This means that one caper plant is enough to produce capers that you can harvest and eat. Caper berries are larger, and have a similar but more mild flavor. If you want your plant to produce caper berries, you will need two caper plants.

Capers thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and bud production. Placing them in a location with ample sunlight exposure helps to increase the number of buds the plant will produce (and that you can harvest!). They can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates, but reduced sunlight may lead to decreased fruit yield.

Capers are native to the Mediterranean, and usually grow in rocky and sandy locations. While it is important to ensure your caper has enough water to thrive, they are generally pretty drought tolerant plants. Make sure not to over-water, and never let your plant sit in a dish with stagnant water, or else it will get root-rot. 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 any moisture, it's time to water. If your finger comes out damp, best to give it some more time before watering.

Fertilizing potted caper plants is essential to ensure they receive adequate nutrients for healthy growth and bud production. You should fertilize caper plants during the growing season, which typically spans from spring to early fall. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, but avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can harm the plant and lead to poor bud development. Regular fertilization can support healthy growth and enhance the production of caper flower buds.

Caper plants have a dormant period during the cooler months, especially in regions with distinct seasons. During this time, growth slows down, and the plant may shed some of its leaves. While they don't necessarily need chill hours like some fruit trees do to break dormancy and set fruit, they do benefit from a period of reduced watering and less frequent fertilization during their dormancy.

Harvesting capers involves plucking the immature flower buds before they fully open. The optimal time to harvest capers is when they are still small and firm, typically about the size of a pea. This stage ensures the best flavor and texture. Harvesting can be done throughout the growing season, but it's best to check the plant regularly for mature buds, as they can quickly overripen and become too large or open. Use small scissors or your fingers to carefully remove the caper buds from the stem, being mindful not to damage the plant. Rinse the harvested capers thoroughly and preserve them in brine or vinegar for culinary use.

Prune in late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts. Focus on removing any dead, damaged, or weak branches, cutting them back to the base. Additionally, trim about a third of the older, woodier stems to encourage new, productive growth. For bushier growth, pinch back the tips of young, healthy shoots throughout the growing season. This approach helps maintain a compact shape and enhances caper production.

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!