GOJI BERRIES

Goji berries ( Lycium barbarum) contain 18 amino acids as well as high levels of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E. They also contain high amounts of iron as well as 21 other key trace minerals.

Hailing from the Himalayas, goji berries are cold tolerant and will grow throughout the country. They are related to tomatoes and have similar nutritional needs, and are subject to the same pests.

Use a tomato fertiliser with higher ratios of phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen, as excess nitrogen will encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers and thus fruit. Add lime too, as goji plants like an alkaline ph. Treat with Yates Tomato Dust or Kiwicare’s Organic Caterpillar Bio Control with Btk (Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki) to prevent tomato worm where necessary. Stake the plants until the trunk thickens and strengthens, and prune each winter to promote branching.