Nowadays, we hear and read a lot about superfoods, but do we know what they stand for? Though not scientifically defined, superfood is an adjective used to describe foods that are considered superior in terms of health to other foods and are abundant in nutrients and consequently, good for our health.
When it comes to superfruits, these are fruits that are richer in vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and other crucial nutrients than most fruits are and if added to our diet, they will boost our body’s nutrient levels.
Be that as it may, one thing is for sure- following a diet abundant in a variety of fruits and veggies is one of the best ways to improve our health and well-being. And, what is great about some superfruits is that you can easily grow them in your own garden at home.
Check out the list below to find out more about these 6 superfruits!
6 Superfruits You Can Grow in Your Garden
- Blueberries
Often referred to as superfruits because of their impressive content of anthocyanins, polyphenols, and phytonutrients, blueberries are a definitely a fruit you do not want to miss out on. They grow as perennial shrubs across different habitats and there are a lot of cultivars suited for different climates. The first yield of fruit is possible after three years of growth.
- Blackberries
Simple to grow, this fruit is definitely a smart and healthy addition to your garden. The upright thorn-covered canes of blackberry is biennial and it grows vegetation in the first year only and then gives flowers and fruits in the second year. You can propagate them by cuttings or transplanting suckers from wild or cultivated brambles.
- Raspberries
This common fruit known for its fragile nature can be cultivated in most temperate regions in black and red varieties. They are abundant in flavonoids, vitamin C, fiber, and anthocyanins. They grow on upright canes which can be cut for rooting so the propagation of raspberries is considered to be rather easy. Remember, there are two major types of raspberries, i.e. everbearing- they produce fruits throughout the season- on first year growth and last year’s cane and the summer bearing ones that bear fruit only on last year’s canes.
- Goji berries
Also known as wolfberry, this superfruit is grown commercially in China; however, you can grow it elsewhere too. They come from a woody perennial plant and the small red-to-orange berries are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and 18 amino acids. The two different varieties of Goji berry are Lycium chinense (shorter) and Lycium barbarum (taller). The first fruits usually appear three years after planting, even though earlier, smaller yield is possible.
- Aronia
This superfood with a deep purple color is one of the most popular fruits in the last couple of years. Praised for its high nutrient levels, it will definitely supply you with phytochemicals and anthocyanins and nourish your body. You can eat the fruits raw or combine them with other foods because of its rather astringent flavor.
- Pomegranates
This fruit grows on small deciduous trees or shrubs and can be grown in different climates. The sweet-tart flavor of pomegranates is what makes it attractive. It is considered to be a superfruit because of its amazing nutrients, including polyphenol, vitamins C and K, and anthocyanins.
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