Howes
Cranberry in the US
Howes is a classic, really stands the test of time and gives a consistent crop. A good one to pick if you're looking for a tried-and-true variety.
Sow window for Cranberry generally, zone 6. In season now.
Buy Howes seeds
Partner retailers. If you buy through these links we may earn a small commission. It never costs you more.
How to grow it
Cranberries are a bit of a commitment, you know. They're hard work, proper long-term stuff, taking about two years from seed to harvest. So, to be honest, most folks don't start them from seed. If you do fancy a challenge, sow seeds indoors in April or May, or according to your USDA zone's specific months. Just scatter them thinly on the surface of a seed tray filled with an acidic seed compost, don't cover them. They like it cool, around 50-60°F (10-15°C) to get going. Keep the soil damp, but not soggy. It can take a good while for them to sprout, so be patient.
Once they've got a few proper leaves, you can carefully prick out the seedlings. Give them their own small pots, still with that acidic compost. Keep them on a windowsill or in a cold frame. Cranberries like space, so when they're ready to go into their permanent spot, allow about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) between plants. They're not tender as such, but they need a good long season, so get them out once the risk of severe frost is gone for your zone.
More Cranberry varieties
Track your Cranberry from packet to plate
Sowing reminders and harvest forecasts for your own frost dates, the Seed Tin, Scan Centre for any label or packet, and the Potty Mouth Garden Club. Free to start.
Allotment keeper in the North East of England, the voice behind the Tony C Smith YouTube channel, and the gardener who built GrowMore CookMore. Club numbers on this page update as members log their plots. Last updated 3 September 2026.