Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is one of the most specialised plants to cultivate, requiring highly acidic, nutrient-poor, permanently moist growing conditions replicating its native bog habitat. Soil pH must be 4.0–5.5 — strongly acidic; amend with sulfur and peat moss well in advance. A raised bog bed constructed from 30 cm of pure acidic peat over a weed-barrier membrane above a water-retention layer works well in home gardens. Space rooted cuttings 30 cm apart — they spread by runners to form a dense evergreen mat. Maintain constant moisture at root level but not standing water during the growing season. Apply an ericaceous fertiliser (formulated for blueberries and rhododendrons) in early spring. In commercial production, bogs are flooded for frost protection and harvest. In containers, use 100% ericaceous compost in wide, shallow planters kept in water-filled trays.