Honeyberries Emerge as a Promising Superfruit for Growers

By Andi Anderson

Honeyberries are emerging as an exciting fruit crop for growers and consumers due to their nutritional value, adaptability, and potential health benefits. Introduced to Iowa within the last decade, the fruit is attracting growing interest as researchers and farmers explore its suitability for local conditions.

Brooke Dietsch, Graduate Student in Plant Pathology, has been involved in research examining honeyberry performance under Iowa growing conditions. She highlighted the fruit's nutritional qualities, stating, "Though the berries are small, they pack a big punch when it comes to purported health benefits," said Brooke Dietsch, a graduate student in plant pathology.

Studies indicate that honeyberries contain beneficial phytocompounds associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Their strong nutritional profile has contributed to their reputation as a potential superfood.

Researchers also see honeyberries as a valuable alternative to blueberries. Suzanne Slack, Former Fruit Specialist at Iowa State University, noted their ability to adapt well to local soils and climate conditions. Unlike blueberries, which require highly acidic soils, honeyberries can grow successfully in less acidic environments, making them easier to cultivate in many regions.

Research trials began in 2022 at the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Station, where scientists continue evaluating plant performance. Additional studies are being conducted to understand the crop’s tolerance to shade and diverse growing conditions.

Honeyberries are native to cooler regions and are naturally resistant to cold temperatures. The plants bloom early in spring and produce elongated berries that resemble blueberries but have a slightly tart flavor. Their early fruiting period provides an advantage for growers by extending the fruit harvest season.

Suzanne Slack explained the research focus, stating, "We started studying honeyberries due to interest from several small growers," Slack said. "Since this is a newer crop for our area, much of our focus has been identifying potential disease and pest issues to respond to interest as people start planting them. We have found they are very flavorful and seem to be pretty resistant to most diseases. A big benefit is that we’re not seeing problems with the insect pest spotted wing drosophila, as the honeyberries fruit so early."

Growers have also reported positive experiences. Joe Wakeman, Owner of Berry Patch Farm, has observed increasing customer interest in the fruit. He stated, "Their popularity is growing," Wakeman said. "Many of our customers are interested in the honeyberries for their health benefits, including to make baby food."

He further added, "The Berry Patch has had good experience with honeyberries," he reported. "Besides being low-maintenance and pest-resistant, they bear in June before most other things ripen, which spreads out the timing of fruits we can sell."

Experts recommend selecting compatible cultivars for cross-pollination, providing irrigation during hot weather, and starting with a small number of plants before making significant investments. With strong disease resistance, good longevity, and rising consumer interest, honeyberries appear to have a promising future as an alternative fruit crop.

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