Lingonberry

Lingonberries

Lingonberries (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) are low-growing, evergreen shrubs that produce small, bright red berries with a tart flavor. They belong to the Ericaceae family, which also includes blueberries, cranberries, and huckleberries.

Starting Plants

Lingonberries can be started from seeds or purchased as container-grown plants. Seeds require stratification for 3-4 months before planting. Plant lingonberries in well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5) with high organic matter content. They spread slowly through underground rhizomes, forming a low-growing mat.

Planting Time

Plant container-grown lingonberries in early spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. Space plants 12-18 inches apart, as they spread slowly.

Harvesting

Lingonberries typically begin producing fruit 2-3 years after planting. Berries are ready to harvest in late summer to early fall when they have turned bright red and are slightly soft. Gently pull the berries from the stems and collect them in a container. Lingonberry plants can produce fruit for 20 years or more with proper care.

Seed Harvesting

To harvest lingonberry seeds, mash ripe berries and separate the seeds from the pulp. Rinse the seeds and allow them to dry before storing in a cool, dry place.

Commonly Grown Varieties

Some popular lingonberry varieties include:

• Red Pearl: A high-yielding variety with large, bright red berries and good disease resistance.
• Koralle: A variety with large, flavorful berries and attractive, glossy foliage.
• Sussi: A compact, low-growing variety with small, tart berries.

Culinary Uses

Lingonberries have a tart, slightly sweet flavor and are often used in processed products:

• Lingonberry jam: Cook lingonberries with sugar and pectin for a traditional Scandinavian jam.
• Lingonberry sauce: Simmer lingonberries with sugar and spices for a sauce to pair with meat dishes, particularly game.
• Lingonberry juice: Press fresh berries or reconstitute juice concentrate for a tart, vitamin-rich drink.
• Lingonberry preserves: Cook lingonberries with sugar for a simple, spreadable preserve.
• Lingonberry tart: Use fresh or frozen lingonberries in a sweet-tart pastry filling.