What is a Honeyberry?
Honeyberries are a naturally existing member of the edible honeysuckle family. They are also known as ‘ Haskap ’ which comes from their Japanese name ‘ Haskappu ’, translating literally as ‘little present on the end of the branch’. They have been cherished in Japan for centuries, where they are known as the ‘ berry of longevity ’ or ‘ berry of long life ’ due to their exceptional health benefits.
A Berry Tale from Japan to Scotland
Our journey began when one of our friends stumbled upon a unique fruit called a ‘ Honeyberry ‘ while on his Honeymoon in Japan. Labelled by the locals as The Berry of Longevity, we were immediately captivated by the berry and it’s popularity in the native culture.
Following initial research, we discovered that Honeyberries thrive in colder climates, meaning they had huge potential to prosper in Scotland's hardy temperatures. After some more digging, we found that some Canadian companies had started growing Honeyberries too, so we assembled a team of inquisitive farmers to learn everything we could from them, devoid of the language barriers of Japan.
In the vast Canadian orchards, our farmers deepened their understanding of growing methods - learning first hand from experienced growers who had been mastering the art of honeyberry cultivation for years already.
Cultivating Scotland’s Superberry
Taking inspiration from farmers with proven track records, our Honeyberry growing approach is simple, yet meticulous. Before our Honeyberries even touch the Scottish soil, we ensure the grounds are perfect condition.
We start with a three year process of cultivating a diverse cover crop, allowing them to flourish and then restart. This not only rejuvenates the soil but attracts pollinators that will later serve our Honeyberries. Nature plays a major role in our growth process, relying on native masonry bee and bumblebees for cross pollination and wildflower strips for natural plant protection.
But we don’t stop there… Scottish Honeyberries are also nurtured with micro nutrients and a mix of diverse seaweeds, ensuring they thrive over the long term. Finally, our protective measures ( from willow windbreaks to beneficial predator habitats ) ensure they grow in an ideal environment, shielded from the elements and biological threats.
Our Commitment: More Than Just a Berry Business
We are not just growing berries, we are cultivating a legacy. Scottish Honeyberry Growers is a collaboration of three family farms from the Scottish Borders Fife & Angus, delivering a new berry packed with great nutrition.
Our commitment to sustainability pushes us to explore ways to make all our orchards carbon positive. We do not look just to today; we are setting the stage for a greener, more sustainable and healthier tomorrow in the years ahead.
Join us on this journey. Experience the taste, the health benefits and the magic of the honeyberries, the UK’s new superberry, the berry of longevity.