Sunberry

Sunberry is a truly unique garden plant, valued for its heavy crop of small, shiny black berries held in attractive clusters. With a sweet-tart flavour that deepens as the fruit ripens, Sunberries can be enjoyed raw, stewed, or cooked into delicious preserves and baked goods. The plants are tidy and upright, making them a good fit for small gardens, containers, or borders.

Where Can You Grow Sunberry?
Best suited for Zones 4–9, Sunberry thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Easy to grow, this annual adapts well to most garden conditions and is ideal for home gardeners seeking something unusual and rewarding.

History and Historical Uses
Sometimes referred to as ‘wonderberry,’ Sunberry was introduced in the early 1900s and has since developed a niche following among growers interested in unusual or forgotten fruits. Closely related to other solanaceous crops, the fruit’s sweet-tart profile makes it especially popular for pies, jams, and sauces.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8–9: Direct sow after last frost or start indoors for a head start.
Zones 5–7: Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost and transplant once soil warms.
Zones 4: Start indoors and grow in a protected, sunny area for best yield.

How to Grow and Harvest Sunberry
Planting: Sow seeds 6mm (1/4in) deep in well-drained soil; space plants 30–45cm (12–18in) apart.
Watering: Water regularly during fruit set; avoid waterlogging.
Harvesting: Pick berries when fully black and soft to the touch; underripe fruit is not sweet.
Maintenance: Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; protect from heavy rain when fruiting.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Select Ripe Fruit: Choose fully mature berries for seed extraction.
Extract Seeds: Mash fruit and rinse to separate seeds from pulp.
Dry and Store: Spread seeds to air dry fully before storing.
Store: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place; seeds remain viable for 4–5 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)