7 Superfruits You Can Grow in Your Garden

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The term “superfruits” or “superfoods” is something that you hear thrown around a lot these days. While it is a common term, however, there is no set definition for it. In general, though, it means a fruit or other food which contains high amounts of nutrients like vitamins and minerals as well as other healthful ingredients like dietary fiber or antioxidants. While superfruits can come from all over the world, it is possible to grow many of them right in your own garden or patio.

Blueberries

Blueberries are fairly simple to grow here in North America, as they grow naturally here and do well in a variety of habitats. However, it does take three years for the bushes to mature so you will have to be patient! They are definitely in the superfruit category, being a rich source of not just vitamins and minerals, but phytonutrients and polyphenols.

Raspberries

This vigorous bushes are grown on upright canes and in some areas are so aggressive they can invade everything around them with their shoots. There are both ever-bearing and summer-bearing varieties and black or red raspberries are available. They are rich in Vitamin C, flavonoids and dietary fiber.

Goji Berries

Although native to China, the goji berry bushes can also be cultivated in North America, though it will take 3-5 years for the bushes to bear fruit. They can even be grown in large containers on your porch or patio. Gojis are high in vitamins and minerals as well as 18 amino acids.

Pomegranates

Although native to Persia, these fruit-bearing trees have also been cultivated over a wide area. They are small, deciduous shrubs and do not take up excessive room if you have a small garden. They are high in Vitamin C and K, as well as polyphenols and anthocyanin.

Blackberries

Of all the berries, these are probably the easiest to grow at home, although you have to be careful not to let them take over once they get established. They are biennial, so you will not get fruit off them until their second growing season. Like other berries, they are high in vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and antioxidants.

Aronia

This fruit, also known as chokeberry, is only starting to get attention in the marketplace as a superfruit. It is loaded with nutrients, fiber and phytochemicals, however, and even though it is not a native plant, it can adapt to a wide climate and soil range.

Lingonberries

Common in Northern and Scandinavian cuisine, these berries are relatives of the cranberry and are a good source of polyphenols, flavonoids, minerals and Vitamin C. They cultivate more readily in cooler climates, but can even be grown in warmer area if provided with sun and heat protection.

Growing your own fruit can be a lot of work and there can be a lot of frustration involved if you are new to fruit-growing and have to go through some “on the job” training while you learn! However, when you are able to go out into your garden and pick your own fruit, you will find that it was well worth the effort.

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Sandeep Godiyal
Sandeep has written many health field articles for both Internet and print publication. His areas of expertise including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.