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Goji berries, also known as Chinese wolfberry, are considered so-called superfoods. They contain high levels of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals that support immunity, vision and overall vitality. In Serbia, the Jovanović family is dedicated to cultivating these berries and believes that goji helped in the recovery from colon cancer. Today they focus on professional cultivation, spreading seedlings and popularizing this exceptional plant.
What you will need for home cultivation of goji
- Lycium seedlings (red or black goji)
- a sunny plot with well-draining, fertile soil
- poles and wires (to train branches and support growth)
- drip irrigation for better water management
- a protective net against hail
How to grow goji step by step
1. Site selection and soil preparation
Goji requires a sunny location and well-drained soil. It thrives at altitudes from 100 to 1,000 meters. Before planting, thoroughly loosen the soil and remove weeds.
2. Planting
Plant seedlings 1 meter apart in the row and 2.5 meters between rows. You can plant from spring through late autumn.
3. Care and pruning
In spring, perform pruning to shape the crown into an umbrella shape, which makes harvesting easier and promotes fruit production.
4. Watering and fertilizing
Goji benefits from drip irrigation, which delivers moisture directly to the roots. During the growing season you can add compost or organic fertilizers.
5. Harvest
The plant flowers from June to November and the fruits ripen gradually. Harvest them carefully by hand into shallow baskets. Black goji is even picked with tweezers by the stem so the juice does not oxidize.
Recommended daily dose and storage
- red goji: 20–50 grams per day (fresh or dried)
- black goji: 3–6 grams per day (due to the high content of OPC and anthocyanins)
You can keep the fruits frozen or sun-dried in thin layers.
Why include goji in your diet
- rich in vitamin A, carotenoids and zeaxanthin (for healthy eyesight)
- contain iron, copper, zinc, potassium and essential amino acids
- have strong antioxidant effects – protect cells from free radicals
- help with diabetes, high blood pressure and some studies also confirm slowing the growth of cancerous cells
What to watch out for
Goji berries are not suitable for children younger than 1.5 years. People taking blood-thinning, cholesterol or blood pressure medications should be cautious – the berries can increase the risk of bleeding and affect blood sugar levels. Rarely, they can trigger an allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock, especially in the case of dried fruits treated with sulfites.
Total preparation time and number of servings
- cultivation and care: year-round process
- harvest: several months depending on variety and climate
- servings: one plant can yield up to several kilograms of fruit per year
Conclusion
Goji are not just a trendy superfood, but a truly valuable source of nutrients and antioxidants. If you are looking for a natural way to support your health, vitality and immunity, try incorporating these small berries into your diet. Whether you enjoy them fresh, dried or as homemade juice, they will benefit your body and mood.
