Science · Plants, Natives & Crops
Cranberry
Cranberries grow on low, trailing perennial vines in acidic beds. They tolerate periodic flooding but are not grown continuously underwater.
Vaccinium macrocarpon · Low-growing evergreen perennial fruit vine
Profile
- Light
- Full sun.
- Soil pH
- The NC State species account gives pH 4.0–5.2.
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained soil is required.
- Growth habit
- A trailing evergreen shrub or ground cover that spreads by rhizomes.
Water & soil context
- Moisture (VWC)
- Maintain moist, aerated soil; periodic flooding tolerance does not mean permanent submergence is suitable.
- Salinity tolerance
- A salt-sensitivity class or threshold is not documented in the cited pages.
- Drought tolerance
- Intolerant of drought and heat.
Illustrative monitoring-depth band
3–8 in
Editorial placement example, not a validated optimum or total rooting depth. Confirm the site's root distribution and soil horizons; multiple depths may be needed.
Commercial beds use managed irrigation and flooding for specific operations while drainage remains important for root health.
Problems to watch
- High-pH chlorosis
- Phytophthora root rot
- Fruit rot
- Heat stress
- Drought stress
Stress signs
- Chlorotic foliage
- Brown, curled, wilting upright growth
- Berries that remain yellowish-tan
- Shriveled or mummified berries
Where you'll find it
- Food crop
- Ground cover for acidic boggy sites
- Wildlife food
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All Science profilesPublished botanical and soil references are distinct from GroundWorx product guidance. Moisture thresholds and monitoring depths require site calibration; sources do not establish product performance or diagnose stress.