What is a Honeyberry?
Honeyberries are a naturally existing member of the edible honeysuckle family. They are often referred to as ‘haskap’ (although we prefer ‘honeyberry’) which comes from their Japanese name ‘Haskappu’, which literally translates as ‘little present on the end of the branch’. They have been cherished in Japan for decades, where they are known as the ‘berry of longevity’ or ‘berry of vision’ due to their exceptional health benefits.
A Berry Tale from Japan to Scotland
Our journey ironically began when one of our growers, Stuart Arbuckle, stumbled upon a unique fruit called a “Honeyberry” while on his Honeymoon in Japan. Labelled by the locals as The Berry of Longevity, he was immediately captivated by the berry and it’s popularity in the native culture.
Following initial research, Stuart discovered that Honeyberries thrive in colder climates, meaning they had huge potential to prosper in Scotland's hardy temperatures. After some more digging, he found that some Canadian companies had started growing Honeyberries too, so he assembled a team of inquisitive farmers to learn everything they could from them, devoid of the language barriers of Japan.
In the vast Canadian orchards, this co-operateive of farmers deepened their understandings of growing methods - learning firsthand 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 just 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're not just growing berries; we're cultivating a legacy. The Scottish Honeyberry Growers is a collaboration of eight visionary farmers spread from the Scottish Borders to the Highlands. Our united goal? To harness the best of Scotland's terroir and create the world’s healthiest and tastiest honeyberries.
As industry leaders, we don't rest on our laurels. Our commitment to sustainability pushes us to explore ways to make all our orchards carbon-positive. We're not just about today; we're setting the stage for a greener, more fruitful tomorrow.
Join us on this journey. Experience the taste, health benefits, and magic of honeyberries, Scotland's superberry.