Growing Guide: Quail Berry

Quick Care Guide

Plant Type:	Perennial Evergreen Shrub or Groundcover
Harvest Season:	Year-round
Mature Size:	Up to 3 ft.
Soil & Moisture:	Moist, well-draining soil
Light Requirements:	Full Sun, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:	Yes
Growth Rate:	Slow
Zone Hardiness:	Outdoors 10-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:	Our Quail Berry plants are grown from seed and capable of being harvested within 1 growing season.

How to Grow Quail Berry Plants

Quail Berry is an attractive, woody shrub, perfect for sunny locations. Enjoy the beautiful foliage and fruit while contributing to the preservation of a Florida native plant. Here are the steps to successfully grow Quail Berry:

Climate and Soil:

Quail berries thrive in warm climates with full sun. They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter. Soil should be loamy and not waterlogged.

Propagation:

Quail Berries can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Collect mature seeds from ripe fruit or take stem cuttings in early summer. De-pulp the seeds and immediately plant in well-draining soil, keep moist, and protect from harsh sun until established. Quail Berry seeds do not store well. 

Planting:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Sow seeds or transplant seedlings in the spring after the last frost. Seeds should be planted just under the soil, not too deep.

Sunlight:

Quail Berry prefers partial shade to full sun. If you are in a hot climate, provide it some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent stress on the plant.

Watering:

Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Quail Berry grows natively in sandy, limestone soil and is not tolerant of salty or brackish water, or salt spray.

Fertilization:

Quail Berry has low nutrient needs and grows quite well in nutrient poor soils. 

Pruning:

Quail Berry does not require any pruning beyond any that may be done to control the shape or direction of growth.

Pest and Disease Control:

Like all plants, Quail Berry should be monitored for area specific pests, but there are no specific dangers. Keep the soil adequately drained to prevent any fungal diseases as the plant stays low to the ground.

Harvesting:

The red berries can be harvested year-round in its native zones, although you may have to share that harvest with any quails that come across it!

Overwintering:

In colder climates, Quail Berry may need additional help in the winter. You can either bring potted plants indoors during winter, overwinter your garden plants, or take stem cuttings to propagate new plants in spring.