Acclimating Goji Berry Plants Before Planting

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Before your goji berry plants ever touch the soil, there’s a key step to help them thrive from day one: acclimation—also known as hardening off. This gradual process helps your plants adjust from their sheltered growing conditions to the more unpredictable outdoor environment.

Many of our potted goji plants at 1st Choice Fertilizer are greenhouse-grown. They often arrive lush and leafy, which is a good sign of health—but also a sign they’re not yet ready for full sun, wind, or fluctuating temperatures without a little preparation.

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Why Acclimation Matters

Young goji plants, especially those with fresh green growth, are vulnerable to environmental stress. Without acclimation, they may experience leaf burn, shock, or stunted growth. Conditions to watch for include:

• Sudden cold snaps below 50°F

• Extreme heat above 90°F

• Intense midday sun

• Dry or gusty winds

These challenges are common in spring and fall—or during sudden weather changes—so easing your plants into the outdoors is essential for long-term success.

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Acclimating Bare-Root Goji Plants

Bare-root goji berries are typically shipped dormant, without soil around their roots. While they’re more resilient to temperature swings in this state, they still benefit from careful handling.

Before planting:

• Soak the roots in water for 1–2 hours (no more than 24 hours).

• Plant as soon as possible, ideally in early spring or fall when the weather is mild.

• Avoid planting in extreme conditions to reduce transplant stress.

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Acclimating Potted Goji Plants

If your goji berry plants arrive in containers with active leaf growth, assume they’ve been grown under controlled conditions. Here’s how to transition them gently to the outdoors:

1. Start Slow: Place your plants in a protected, shaded outdoor spot—like a covered porch or under a tree.

2. Increase Light Gradually: After 1–2 days, begin moving them into brighter light for a few hours each day, slowly building up exposure.

3. Water Properly: Water upon arrival, then let the top inch of soil dry between waterings. This helps prevent overwatering while promoting resilience.

4. Watch for Stress Signs: Curling or browning leaves mean they need gentler conditions—move them to filtered light or bring them indoors temporarily.

5. Protect from the Cold: Don’t leave them outside overnight if temperatures dip near freezing. Keep them indoors until conditions improve.

After 3–5 days, if daytime temps are stable and the soil is above 50°F, your goji berry plants are ready to be transplanted. Choose a calm, overcast day for best results and minimal transplant stress.

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A Few Extra Tips

• Adjust to Your Climate: Some regions require longer acclimation periods—especially if weather is erratic.

• Indoor Option: If your outdoor conditions are too harsh, treat your goji plants like houseplants near a bright window until it’s safe to move them out.

• Go Slow if Needed: Every plant is unique—don’t rush the process if your goji berries seem sensitive.

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Proper acclimation is a small but powerful step in establishing strong, productive goji berry plants. With 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’re not just planting—you’re setting the foundation for a thriving, fruitful future.

Choosing the Right Location to Plant Goji Berries

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Success with goji berries starts well before you plant. Choosing the right location for your goji plants can prevent common problems and help you enjoy stronger growth, more flowers, and bigger berry harvests for years to come.

Here are five key things to consider before planting your goji berry bushes:

• Sunlight and soil quality

• Drainage and elevation

• Surroundings

• Spacing

• Future growth potential

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1. Sunlight & Soil: Fuel for Fruit

Goji berries love full sun, and the more they get, the better they grow. Aim for 6 to 10 hours of direct sunlight per day. Plants grown in low-light areas may survive, but they’ll produce fewer berries and grow more slowly.

Good drainage is just as important as sunlight. Goji plants dislike soggy roots and will perform poorly in areas where water tends to pool. If you’re working with heavy clay or compacted soil, amend it with compost or plant in raised beds to improve drainage.

Need a quick soil fix? Add compost, peat moss, or our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium to lighten soil texture and boost root development. For long-term success, test your soil’s pH and aim for a slightly acidic to neutral range (6.5–7.0).

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2. Drainage & Elevation: Avoid Water Stress

Unlike some shallow-rooted fruits, goji berries develop deep taproots. This means they need well-draining soil but also benefit from being slightly elevated or on a gentle slope, where air circulates better and water doesn’t accumulate.

Avoid low spots in your yard that stay damp after rain. If planting in containers, make sure your pots have multiple drainage holes and are at least 12–14 inches deep.

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3. Check the Surroundings: Give Them Space to Shine

Think ahead before choosing a spot. Goji plants can reach 5–8 feet tall and spread 3–5 feet wide, especially once mature. Make sure the space around them supports healthy air circulation and won’t shade or crowd them out.

Questions to ask:

• Will this spot get enough sun year-round?

• Are there nearby trees or shrubs that may compete for nutrients?

• Could structures, fences, or other plants block airflow or light?

Well-spaced goji plants are less likely to suffer from fungal issues and are easier to prune and harvest.

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4. Space Wisely: Room for Roots and Branches

Goji berry roots are not invasive, but they still need room to grow. Giving each plant its own space will prevent competition and promote better berry yields.

Here’s a general spacing guide:

• Single plant in garden bed: Allow 3–5 feet of space in all directions

• Hedge row or orchard style: Plant 4 feet apart in rows, with 6–8 feet between rows

• Container-grown plants: One plant per 5–10 gallon container with excellent drainage

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5. Plan for the Future: Think Beyond One Season

You may start with one or two bushes, but goji berries can be addictive—in the best way! Whether you’re planning a full backyard berry patch or just leaving space to expand later, it’s smart to design your planting layout with future growth in mind.

Leave room to add more plants down the line, and consider companion crops like blueberries or elderberries that enjoy similar conditions.

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Ready to Plant? You’re Almost There.

Choosing the right spot for your goji berry plants is one of the smartest steps you can take for long-term success. With a little planning and expert support from 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’re well on your way to enjoying vibrant plants and nutrient-packed harvests—season after season.

How to Plant Goji Berries the Right Way

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Establishing healthy, productive goji berry plants starts with planting them properly. While goji berries are hardy and relatively low-maintenance once established, how you plant them makes all the difference in long-term growth, resilience, and berry yield.

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Getting Started: Prep Before You Plant

If you’re planting bare-root goji plants, soak the roots in clean water for 1–2 hours (no more than 6). This rehydrates them and helps reduce transplant shock. Never let roots dry out or freeze before planting.

For potted goji plants, water thoroughly upon arrival and allow the top inch of soil to dry before transplanting. If planting can’t happen immediately, keep the plant in a shaded, sheltered location.

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Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Dig Deep & Wide

Dig a hole about twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball or root spread. Loosen the soil at the bottom to encourage downward root growth. Save the topsoil—it’s the most fertile layer and should go back in first.

2. Enrich the Soil

Mix in aged compost, rotted manure, or coir (like our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium) with your topsoil. Goji plants thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.5–7.0), so avoid heavy amendments like peat moss unless you’re adjusting pH intentionally.

3. Position the Plant

Set your goji plant in the center of the hole. For bare-root plants, gently fan out the roots. For potted plants, loosen any circling or compacted roots around the base. Hold the plant upright and begin backfilling with your enriched soil, gently tamping as you go to remove air pockets.

4. Form a Water Basin

Especially on slopes, create a shallow berm or basin around the plant base to help water soak in instead of running off. Finish with mulch to hold in moisture and protect the roots from temperature extremes.

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After Planting: Water, Mulch & Protect

• Water deeply to saturate the root zone—about 1 gallon for new plants.

• Mulch with 2–3 inches of organic material such as straw, shredded bark, or leaves. This suppresses weeds and regulates soil temperature.

• Avoid fertilizing immediately after planting. Wait until your plant shows signs of new growth, then use a balanced starter fertilizer like 1st Choice Fertilizer’s Berry Boost Formula.

• Re-check soil levels after watering. Add more soil if it settles below the crown.

• Pull mulch away from the base of the stem to avoid rot or rodent damage.

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How to Plant Potted Goji Plants

If your goji plant came in a container:

1. Water it well upon arrival.

2. If you can’t plant right away, keep it in partial shade and water when the soil begins to dry out.

3. Gently remove the plant from its pot. If it’s rootbound, carefully tease apart some of the roots.

4. Plant at the same depth it was growing in the container. Backfill, tamp gently, and water deeply.

5. Stake if needed—especially in windy areas or if the plant is tall and top-heavy.

⚠️ Important: Never plant a plastic nursery pot in the ground. It will restrict root growth and prevent proper drainage.

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Final Tip: Remove Plant Tags

Those handy plastic tags can eventually constrict the stem as the plant grows. Remove them after planting, or reattach loosely with soft twine if you want to keep track of the variety.

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You’re On Your Way

With thoughtful planting and care, your goji berry plants will reward you with beautiful growth and nutrient-packed harvests. And with guidance and products from 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’re fully equipped to grow goji berries the right way—right from the start.

How to Prepare Soil for Planting Goji Berries

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Before your goji berry plants go in the ground, it’s essential to create the right soil environment. Healthy soil leads to healthy roots—and healthy roots are the foundation for vigorous growth and a strong berry yield.

Whether you’re planting in spring or fall, a little time spent preparing your soil can mean the difference between struggling plants and a thriving goji harvest.

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Why Soil Preparation Matters

Goji berries are hardy, but they still need well-prepared soil to truly thrive. Prepping your site properly helps your plants:

• Absorb nutrients efficiently

• Retain just the right amount of moisture

• Develop deep, stable root systems

• Resist stress from pests, drought, or temperature swings

Start by testing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. You can use a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter for quick readings or send a sample to your local Cooperative Extension for more detailed results. Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0, which is ideal for goji berries.

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Understanding Your Soil Type

Not all soils are created equal. Here’s how to recognize what kind of soil you’re working with—and what to do to make it better for goji plants:

Clay or Silt Soils

These feel sticky when wet and are prone to compaction. While they hold water well, they can suffocate roots and lead to poor drainage. Amending with organic matter and coarse materials is key.

Loamy Soils

The gold standard. Rich in nutrients, crumbly, and well-draining, loam offers an ideal environment for goji roots. Even so, boosting it with compost or coir never hurts.

Sandy Soils

These drain quickly and dry out fast, which can lead to stress in young goji plants. They’ll need frequent watering and organic amendments to help retain moisture.

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When to Prepare Your Soil

You can prep your soil any time it’s workable—meaning it’s not frozen or overly saturated. For most regions, this means early spring or fall is best. If you’re planning to plant in spring, prepping in the fall gives your amendments time to settle in and enrich the soil.

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What to Add to Goji-Friendly Soil

Goji berries prefer light, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Here are some recommended amendments:

• Compost – Adds nutrients and improves structure and microbial activity.

• Aged Manure – Boosts organic content and long-term fertility.

• Coco-Fiber Growing Medium – A sustainable, neutral alternative to peat moss that improves water retention and aeration.

• Sand – Helps break up dense clay soils when used with compost.

• Peat Moss or Sphagnum – Useful if you need to lower soil pH slightly in alkaline regions.

• Garden Lime – Use sparingly if your soil is too acidic (pH below 6.0).

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Pro Tip: Use What You Have

Grass clippings, shredded leaves, and finely chopped garden waste make excellent free organic material. Add these in the fall or compost them to use in your goji beds in the spring.

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How Organic Matter Helps

• In sandy soil: Organic material improves moisture retention and slows nutrient loss.

• In clay/silt soil: It loosens compacted particles, enhances drainage, and creates space for root expansion.

• In poor soils: Compost rebuilds soil biology, supporting better root health and nutrient availability.

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Your Soil, Your Success

Healthy soil is one of the best investments you can make for long-term success with goji berries. A strong start in the right soil reduces stress, improves yield, and sets you up for vibrant, berry-laden plants.

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Ready for the Next Step?

In the next guide in our “How to Grow Goji Berries” series, we’ll walk you through how to water your newly planted goji plants—how much, how often, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Need help picking the right amendments for your soil?
Explore our full line of goji-friendly products at www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com

Fertilizing Goji Berries for Healthy Growth and Fruit Production

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Fertilizing your goji berry plants is a key step in helping them grow strong, flower reliably, and produce those nutrient-packed berries. While goji berries are known for being low-maintenance, they still need the right nutrient support—especially in their early years and during the fruiting season.

That starts with understanding your soil and choosing a fertilizer tailored to the unique needs of goji plants.

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Why Fertilize Goji Berries?

Think of fertilizer not as “food” but as a targeted supplement that improves your soil’s fertility and gives your plants what they need to thrive. Goji plants especially benefit from a balanced fertilizer that supports leafy growth early on and transitions to support flowering and berry development.

Key macronutrients to look for in fertilizer labels (N-P-K):

• Nitrogen (N) – Promotes leafy green growth and early plant development

• Phosphorus (P) – Supports root strength and fruit set

• Potassium (K) – Boosts disease resistance and berry quality

Our 1st Choice Berry Boost Formula is specially blended for fruiting shrubs like goji berries. It offers just the right balance to support both plant structure and high berry yield.

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Always Test Before You Fertilize

Over-fertilizing can harm your goji plants just as much as not fertilizing at all. Before applying anything, test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels using a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter or a local Cooperative Extension soil test.

Goji berries prefer a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0, and benefit most from moderate, well-timed feeding—especially in nutrient-poor or sandy soils.

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Fertilizing Young Goji Plants

If your goji plant is newly planted in fertile soil, hold off on fertilizing until you see new growth. Too much nitrogen too soon can lead to excess foliage and weak stems.

If growth is slow, begin fertilizing lightly in early spring using a water-soluble fertilizer like 1st Choice Fruit & Berry Starter Mix. Apply around the base of the plant every 3–4 weeks through the early growing season.

✔ Pro Tip: Always water well after fertilizing to help the nutrients reach the root zone and avoid “burning” the roots.

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Fertilizing Mature Goji Berry Plants

Established goji plants (2+ years old) need more targeted feeding, especially once they start producing fruit.

Apply a balanced or slightly phosphorus-rich fertilizer early in the season (like 5-10-10 or 4-6-6 blends). Phosphorus supports abundant flowering and better berry set.

We recommend 1st Choice Goji Grow Granules, a slow-release blend that nourishes steadily without the risk of overfeeding.

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When to Fertilize Goji Berries

• First application: Early spring (as new growth begins)

• Follow-up applications: Every 4–6 weeks during active growth

• Last application: No later than mid-summer (late July in most regions)

⚠️ Avoid fertilizing late in the season. Late nitrogen boosts can trigger soft, new growth that may not survive winter.

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Different Goji Needs, Different Feeding

Some goji cultivars grow more vigorously and may require less frequent feeding. Here’s a general guideline:

• Light feeders: Smaller-fruited or compact goji types

• Moderate to heavy feeders: Vigorous, large-fruited varieties or container-grown plants, which leach nutrients more quickly

If your plant is in a container, use a liquid fertilizer more frequently (every 2–3 weeks during the growing season), since nutrients wash out faster than in garden soil.

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Don’t Forget Micronutrients

In addition to N-P-K, micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and calcium are important for healthy fruit and foliage. Deficiencies can lead to leaf yellowing or poor berry quality.

Use a micronutrient-rich foliar spray, or try 1st Choice Earth-Care Berry Formula with Calcium+ to provide full-spectrum support during flowering and fruiting.

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Your Fertilizer Plan = Your Berry Harvest

With the right soil knowledge and a consistent, balanced feeding schedule, your goji berries will reward you with vigorous growth, healthy leaves, and flavorful fruit.

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Need Help Choosing the Right Fertilizer?

Visit www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com to browse our full line of berry-safe fertilizers and tools—and let us help you grow your best goji crop yet.

Pest & Disease Control for Goji Berry Plants

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

As your goji berry plants grow, they may face challenges from various pests and diseases. Factors such as location, weather, and care influence which problems occur and how well your plants resist them. Selecting disease-resistant varieties and following good maintenance practices like watering, fertilizing, pruning, spraying, cleanup, and winter protection can help keep your goji plants healthy and productive.

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Common Goji Berry Pests

Aphids
Tiny insects clustering on stems and leaf undersides.
Symptoms: Curled, yellowing leaves; sticky “honeydew” residue that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold.
Control:

• Sprays: Insecticidal soap, neem oil

• Natural: Horticultural oil, insecticidal soaps, neem-based products

Spider Mites
Tiny arachnids feeding on leaf undersides.
Symptoms: Bronzing or stippling on leaves, fine webbing in severe cases.
Control:

• Maintain adequate moisture and avoid dusty conditions

• Use horticultural oils or miticides labeled for use on goji

Leafhoppers
Small, fast-moving insects feeding on sap.
Symptoms: White or yellow mottling on leaves; possible disease transmission.
Control:

• Insecticidal soap or neem oil

• Remove weeds and debris near plants

Goji Berry Fruit Fly
Adults lay eggs in berries, larvae tunnel inside causing fruit drop.
Symptoms: Soft, damaged berries with internal tunneling.
Control:

• Use sticky traps to monitor adults

• Remove and destroy damaged fruit promptly

• Apply approved insecticides if infestation is severe

Leafrollers
Caterpillars that roll leaves and feed inside.
Symptoms: Rolled leaves, chewed foliage.
Control:

• Prune infested leaves early

• Use biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis (BT)

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Common Goji Berry Diseases

Powdery Mildew
Fungal disease appearing as white powdery spots on leaves and stems.
Control:

• Improve air circulation by pruning

• Apply sulfur or other recommended fungicides early

Anthracnose
Fungal disease causing dark, sunken lesions on fruit and leaves.
Control:

• Remove and destroy infected plant parts

• Use copper-based fungicides or neem oil sprays

Root Rot
Caused by overly wet soil leading to fungal infection of roots.
Control:

• Ensure well-draining soil

• Avoid overwatering

• Treat soil with appropriate fungicides if necessary

Leaf Spot Diseases
Various fungi causing spots on leaves that may lead to premature leaf drop.
Control:

• Remove fallen leaves and debris

• Apply fungicide sprays as needed

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Tips for Prevention & Care

• Inspect Regularly: Check plants weekly for early pest or disease signs.

• Maintain Cleanliness: Remove fallen leaves and fruit that can harbor pests or disease.

• Prune Wisely: Keep canopies open to improve airflow and reduce moisture buildup.

• Water Properly: Water at the soil level, avoid wetting leaves to minimize fungal diseases.

• Fertilize Appropriately: Use balanced fertilizers to keep plants healthy without encouraging pest outbreaks.

• Encourage Beneficial Insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps help control pest populations naturally.

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By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, you can protect your goji berry plants from common pests and diseases, ensuring a bountiful and healthy harvest year after year.

Pruning Goji Berry Plants for Health and Productivity

Proper pruning is essential for maintaining healthy, vigorous goji berry plants and maximizing fruit production. Regular pruning helps improve air circulation, reduce disease pressure, and shape the plants for easier harvesting.

When to Prune:

• Late winter or early spring, before new growth starts, is the best time to prune goji plants.

• Light pruning can also be done during the growing season to remove damaged or diseased branches.

How to Prune:

• Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood first. This helps prevent the spread of pests and diseases.

• Thin out crowded or crossing branches to open up the canopy for better air flow and sunlight penetration.

• Cut back overly long or leggy branches to encourage bushier growth and more fruiting wood.

• Aim to maintain an open, vase-like shape with strong, well-spaced main stems.

Tools & Tips:

• Use clean, sharp pruning shears or loppers.

• Disinfect tools between cuts if you suspect disease to avoid contamination.

• Always make clean cuts just above a bud or lateral branch to promote healthy regrowth.

• Collect and dispose of all pruned material, especially if it shows signs of disease.

Regular pruning not only keeps your goji berry plants healthy but also improves fruit quality and yield season after season.

Pest and Disease Control for Goji Berries: Effective Spraying Guidelines

(Adapted from the “How to Grow Apple Trees” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Growing goji berries successfully means keeping pests and diseases under control while protecting the health of your plants. Like apple trees, goji berry plants can be affected by specific pests and fungal diseases depending on your location and climate. Local extension offices, university resources, and experienced local growers remain valuable sources for tailored advice.

Maintaining a regular, preventive spraying routine is essential in areas with high pest pressure to keep your goji plants vigorous and productive. Applying sprays at the right time and with proper care ensures effective control without harming beneficial insects or the environment.

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When to Spray Goji Berry Plants

• Dormant Season: Late winter or early spring, before new growth starts, to control overwintering pests and fungal spores.

• Early Growing Season (Bud Break): As shoots and leaves begin to emerge, apply preventive sprays for early pests and diseases.

• Flowering and Fruit Set: After flowers bloom and petals drop, spray to protect developing berries while avoiding harm to pollinators.

• Growing Season: Repeat treatments as needed based on pest/disease scouting and label recommendations.

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Pest Control Sprays for Goji Berries

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Disease Control Sprays for Goji Berries

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Combination Sprays (Pests & Diseases)

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Tips for Effective Spraying on Goji Berries

• Always follow product label instructions for dosage, timing, and safety precautions.

• Spray thoroughly to cover all leaf surfaces, especially undersides where pests hide.

• Avoid spraying during extreme heat, drought, or rain. Wait for leaves to dry after rainfall before applying.

• Conduct a small patch test when using a new spray to check for plant sensitivity.

• Use personal protective equipment during application.

• Time sprays to minimize impact on pollinators—preferably after petal drop.

• Regularly monitor your plants and act early to prevent serious outbreaks.

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With attentive care and a proper spraying schedule, your goji berry plants can thrive, producing abundant, healthy fruit season after season!

Watering Goji Berry

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berry” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

If your goji berry plants aren’t planted in especially dry environments—like arid regions, drought zones, or containers—you likely won’t need to irrigate them much beyond what natural rainfall provides after the first year. That said, young plants during their initial season will benefit from a consistent watering routine to get firmly established.

Using a product like 1st Choice Fertilizer can make a big difference. This fertilizer not only nourishes the soil but also helps it hold onto moisture, keeping the root zone hydrated longer and reducing the need for frequent watering.

Watering Tips for New Goji Berry Plants

During the first growing season, your goal should be to keep the root area evenly moist—but not soaked. If your area sees around one inch of rain every 7 to 10 days, that usually takes care of the plant’s needs. If rainfall is scarce, supplement with a deep watering session. A slow trickle from a hose placed near the base works well, allowing moisture to seep deep into the ground. Soaker hoses are also handy if you’re caring for several plants at once.

Avoid watering too often or too lightly. Daily surface watering can cause shallow root development and may actually stress the plant. Instead, water deeply just once every week to 10 days. In cooler or clay-heavy soils, even every two weeks may be sufficient. Be cautious not to overwater, as excess moisture can suffocate roots and lead to rot.

If you dig a shallow basin around the plant to help catch water during the growing months, be sure to level it before winter arrives. This helps prevent ice damage caused by water pooling and freezing at the base of the stem.

Reminder: These are general recommendations. Your plant’s watering needs will depend on your local weather and soil type. Observe the soil’s moisture and adjust as needed—let the plant and soil conditions guide your schedule.

Also, don’t forget to check whether your local area has any watering restrictions in place. Some regions enforce water-use limits during dry seasons, so it’s important to follow those rules when caring for your goji berry plants.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor: Goji Berry Harvest and Storage

(From the “How to Grow Goji Berries” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

After seasons of nurturing your goji berry plants, the moment you’ve been waiting for finally arrives—harvest time! This is when all your effort pays off. As you begin picking your goji berries, there are a few things to keep in mind: knowing when your berries are ready and understanding how to store them properly to make the most of your crop.

When Will My Goji Berry Plant Start Producing?

With good growing conditions and regular care, most goji berry plants will begin producing fruit within two to three years after planting. The timeline varies depending on the variety and growing environment, but patience and consistency are key.

Recognizing Ripe Goji Berries

Don’t be too quick to pick—your goji berries will let you know when they’re ready. Ripe berries typically turn a bright red or orange-red color and feel slightly soft to the touch. Another sign of ripeness is when the berries easily detach from the stem with a gentle tug.

Goji berry harvest typically begins in mid to late summer and can continue into early fall depending on your region and variety.

How to Store Goji Berries for Long-Term Use

If you’d like to keep your goji berries fresh well beyond harvest season, proper storage is crucial. Fresh berries are delicate and can spoil quickly if not stored correctly.

For the best storage results:

• Pick fully ripe berries carefully to avoid bruising.

• Handle gently, as damaged berries spoil faster.

• Store berries in shallow containers lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.

• Keep berries refrigerated at around 32°F to 40°F and use within a few days for best freshness.

For long-term storage, consider drying your goji berries. Dried goji berries store well in airtight containers in a cool, dark place and can last for several months.

Whether you’re planning to enjoy your goji berries fresh, add them to smoothies, or dry them for later use, a little care during harvest and storage will help you get the most from your homegrown bounty.