When we think of cranberries, Pennsylvania is probably not a state that comes to mind.

Wisconsin is the largest grower of cranberries, followed by Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington and Oregon.

Delaware, Maine, New York, Michigan and Rhode Island also grow cranberries to some extent.

While not a commercial producer, there are many areas in Pennsylvania where cranberries grow naturally in the wild.

There are two cranberry species native to Pennsylvania: American or large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), the common, commercially-grown variety, and small or bog cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos).

Members of the heath family (Ericaceae), cranberries are hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 2 through 7.

These low-growing, vine-like shrubs have evergreen leaves that have a copper color in the spring, mature to dark green in the summer, and turn maroon in the fall.

Both species have small, glossy, ovate leaves.

However, the leaves of the small cranberry are smaller with rolled edges that are dark green above with a lighter, whitish underside.

Blooming from May to July, their pale pinkish-white flowers have four backward-pointing petals that some say have the appearance of shooting stars or crane’s beaks.

Because of this resemblance, European settlers to North America originally called them “craneberries,” which was later shortened to cranberries.

The flowers give rise to the tart berries we are familiar with in August through November.

Wild cranberries grow naturally in bogs.

Bogs are freshwater wetlands that receive most of their water from rain and snow rather than from runoff, groundwater or streams.

Often, bogs form in kettle ponds or other depressions that are a result of glaciation.

The area is typically composed of sphagnum moss, which will easily absorb and retain water.

As sphagnum moss dies, it slowly decomposes, forming a layer of peat moss, creating an acidic, nutrient-poor environment.

Growing cranberry plants at home is possible. No bog is needed.

They can be grown to harvest the fruit, but they also make an attractive ground cover.

Before planting, there are a few important considerations.

Cranberries do not like to be moved, so site selection is important.

Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil; the plants do not like wet feet.

In a natural bog, the soil will stay moist.

Though it may occasionally flood, it will not remain wet.

Incorporate sand to improve drainage in heavy soil.

Adding other soil amendments, such as dehydrated cow manure, compost, or peat moss, can help loosen the soil.

To grow well, cranberries need an acidic soil pH between 4 and 5.5.

Before planting, it is important to do a fertility soil test to check the soil’s pH and, if necessary, amend accordingly.

Repeat soil testing every two to three years to be sure the pH remains in the optimal range.

While cranberries can be grown from unrooted cuttings. Starting with rooted cuttings will increase your chance of success.

Some nurseries will ship cranberries if you can’t find them locally.

Space your plants two to three feet apart.

They will spread by runners, so don’t plant them too close to each other.

Be sure not to plant them too deep.

The crown of the plants should be right at soil level, with the roots just under the surface.

Cranberries require average moisture.

A good rule of thumb is one inch of rain every 10 days.

If there is a dry spell, thoroughly soak them to maintain this moisture level.

To harvest your fruit, gently remove the berries from the plants when they ripen to a dark red.

Be patient, as the plants usually need to be three-years-old before producing berries.

“Growing Green” is contributed by Diane Dorn, Lehigh County Extension Office Staff, and Master Gardeners. Information: Lehigh County Extension Office, 610-391-9840; Northampton County Extension Office, 610-813-6613