Cardiologists Recommend Blueberries Daily, but High Prices Keep Many Away – This Simple Hack Makes It Affordable

NEW DELHI:

Blueberries have long been hailed by nutritionists and cardiologists as a “superfruit” packed with antioxidants that support heart health, boost memory, and help regulate blood sugar. Yet for many Indians, including those over 40 who could benefit the most, the fruit remains out of reach.

At supermarkets, a small box of imported blueberries can cost anywhere from ₹400 to ₹700, with per-kilogram prices soaring above ₹2,000. For families on a budget, eating these berries daily is nearly impossible.

“It’s a real challenge,” says nutritionist Dr. Anjali Sharma. “We recommend foods like blueberries for health, but the cost is a barrier for most people.”

Growing Your Own Blueberries

Now, a growing number of urban Indians are finding an ingenious solution: growing blueberries at home, even on small balconies or terraces.

Take Anil Varma, a 62-year-old retired schoolteacher from Pune. After trying expensive store-bought blueberries, he realized he couldn’t afford a daily supply. Determined to find a better option, he discovered the ‘Four Seasons’ blueberry variety, specially bred to thrive in pots and India’s climate. Unlike traditional blueberries that need cold conditions, these plants fruit multiple times a year, providing a steady harvest.

“I just have a small balcony,” Anil explains. “Within a few months, the plants started flowering, and soon, we had fresh blueberries every morning. They taste far better than what we bought in stores, and the cost savings are huge.”

Anil’s initial investment of under ₹500 for a pack of seeds will save him over ₹20,000 in grocery costs over the next two years.

Why Balcony Farming is Catching On

Anil’s experience reflects a growing trend among urban Indians for three main reasons:

·         Big Savings: A small upfront investment replaces the need for expensive store-bought berries.

·         Guaranteed Freshness and Organic Produce: Home-grown blueberries are free from pesticides and picked at peak ripeness.

·         Beginner-Friendly: The ‘Four Seasons’ variety is resilient and easy to grow, even for those with little gardening experience.

Suppliers like Plant Heaven report surging demand for these seeds, with many selling out quickly. To make them more accessible, some sellers are offering limited-time discounts, though supplies remain limited.

For anyone looking to enjoy the health benefits of blueberries without spending a fortune, growing them at home may be the perfect solution – combining wellness, affordability, and the satisfaction of harvesting your own superfruit.