SOPG Ivan Maras
IQM Members - SOPG Ivan Maras
- Kralja Tomislava 87, 53000, Gospić
- +385 91 506 1850
- ivan.maras6@gmail.com
Product with Lika Quality label:
Blueberries
After a detailed analysis of the soil, it was established that soil acidity of PH 4.3 is ideal for growing blueberries, and in 2008 we set out on the dream of planting the first blueberry seedlings. The plantation is located in Žabica near Gospić. Since we were the first blueberry growers in Lika, we started with a trial planting of 300 seedlings with 5 different varieties, where it turned out that the soil and climate are extremely suitable for them. Today, we have about 1,000 seedlings that we got from our own cultivation using the method of propagation through cuttings. Cultivation is 100% ecological, which means that the plants are not treated with absolutely any chemical means, and fertilizing is exclusively organic fertilizer.
The blueberry is a small fruit with an interesting blue color, in addition to its wonderful taste, it also has a number of beneficial effects on health. It is a food that is rich in phytochemicals and can slow down loss or improve memory. It is believed that their high level of flavonoids, especially anthocyanins and flavanols, is responsible for this effect. The positive effect of blueberries on eyesight is also known. Bilberry strengthens small blood vessels, capillaries, and thus enables nutrients to reach the less well-perfused areas of the eye. It improves night vision and adaptation to bright light and helps in the treatment of degenerative diseases of the retina (retinopathy). The blue color of blueberries comes from anthocyanin - a well-known antioxidant. Foods rich in antioxidants reduce the risk of cancer and diseases of the heart and circulatory system. Blueberries are also rich in dietary fiber, especially pectin, which is soluble in water and has a beneficial effect on lowering blood cholesterol. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, so one serving of blueberries (150 g) provides 41% of the recommended daily requirements.
We sell only fresh fruits mostly from the doorstep and by order. We sell a smaller part at the market in Zadar.
In the future, the plan is to expand the plantation and produce blueberry products such as liqueurs, jam, juice and the like.