4 FOCUS - SEPTEMBER 2018 mature plants to lilac bushes, because when fully mature, aronia bushes grow both wide and tall, six to eight feet in either direction. He has 3,000 – 4,000 plants, which are 6 ½ years old. An aronia plant can live up to 120 years. The deep green colour of the leaves in spring and summer turns to a pretty red in the fall. Viking is the most common variety, and widespread in Europe. Aronia plants can withstand the harsh cold weather, Silvio noted, so they are ideal for Canadian and other colder climates. Russian soldiers used to carry capsules filled with dried aronia berries in case of nuclear attack, because of the radio protective effects. Silvio would recommend the consumption of aronia for anyone being exposed to radiation, such as a CT scan or MRI. Many people may be familiar with the beautiful or- namental variety with the delicate white blossoms, he commented. The aronia plants cultivated for human con- sumption produces berries the size of a regular blueberry. They start out red in colour, and then turn to a dark purple, almost black hue. This year the rain came just in time to nourish the aronia berries so there should be a good crop, he predicted. Last year was the first year that Silvio invited pickers to his farm, and it was mostly word of mouth advertising to people who purchase Superberry concen- trate from him. A 31-day supply, one 16-ounce bottle of Superberry concentrate (produced in Omaha Nebraska) contains 7 lbs of berries, and retails for $45. Aronia Berries (continued from page 3) Tannins Antioxidant beneficial for their anti-inflammatory properties Seeds Contain large amounts of procyanidins and other bioactive components Catachins Super strong antioxidant with cardioproactive effects Anthocyanins Shown to have a positive effect on inflammation, cardioproactive health and more Polyphenols Protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable particles that can cause cell damage Antioxidants Helps manage daily body stresses, Vitamins A, C and E Aronia berries are powered by a blend of properties that are direct from nature. The powerful components in the amazing Aronia berry have been found to: improve function of the circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems; prevent gastric damage; protect heart cells from cell membrane damage and DNA fragmentation; protect the liver from chemical damage; enhance overall wellness; improve urinary tract health; reduce allergy production. ANDY LEITCH Owner of Canadian Tire Port Perry BILL WEISFLOCK Owner/Carpenter Weisflock Contracting Inc. Offering men’s cuts, colour and barbering. 1976 905-985-0099 21 Wilbur Avenue I rgreco@quisk.ca BILL WEISFLOCK DISTINCTIVE GENTLEMEN OF PORT PERRY Rosario Greco Styles......... For Your Best Look Since 1976