Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Cranberry — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Vaccinium macrocarpon |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1095–1460 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| Mature height (cm) | 15.2–25.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–6 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | High |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Cranberries require strongly acidic soil (pH 4.0–5.0), consistent moisture, and sandy-peat substrate — conditions that closely mimic their native bog habitat. A 3–4 in layer of coarse sand mulch helps suppress weeds and maintains the proper surface environment. The vines are slow to establish and typically take 3–4 years to produce a meaningful crop. Harvest in fall when berries turn deep red and bounce when dropped; home growers pick by hand rather than flooding.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0