Honey Bee' Haskap

The Haskap 'Honey Bee' (Lonicera caerulea 'Honey Bee') is a hardy and vigorous fruit shrub, ideal for Quebec gardens. Its elongated, deep blue fruits offer a sweet and slightly tart flavor, reminiscent of honey. This early variety produces an abundance of juicy berries from the beginning of summer, perfect for fresh consumption, jams, desserts, and smoothies.

Characteristics:

• Fruits: Dark blue, elongated, sweet and tart, honey flavor.
• Ripening: Early, beginning of summer.
• Growth: Vigorous shrub, 1 to 1.5 meters tall.
• Foliage: Deciduous, bluish-green.
• Flowers: Creamy white, fragrant, attract pollinators.

Cultivation:

1. Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter, slightly acidic (pH 6-6.5).
2. Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
3. Planting: Spring or fall, spacing 1 to 1.5 meters apart.
4. Pollination: Plant at least two different varieties for better fruit production.
5. Watering: Regular, especially during dry periods.
6. Pruning: Late winter or early spring, remove dead or damaged branches.
7. Fertilization: In spring, with a balanced fertilizer.

Harvest:

The fruits usually ripen in July. Pick gently when they are dark blue and come off the branch easily.