Glow Berries in Minecraft were initially quite rare upon their introduction in update 1.17, but they are now relatively common with the full implementation of Lush Caverns in subsequent updates. Their availability shifted significantly after the initial release of the Caverns & Cliffs update.
Understanding Glow Berry Availability
Glow Berries are a unique food and light source in Minecraft, known for growing on Cave Vines. Their rarity has been a topic of discussion due to their staggered release and the evolution of world generation.
Initial Rarity (Minecraft 1.17)
When Glow Berries were first introduced in Minecraft's 1.17 Caves & Cliffs: Part I update, their natural generation was significantly limited. Although the item itself was added, the Lush Caverns biome – their primary natural habitat – was absent from the initial 1.17 release. This meant that finding them naturally was severely limited, primarily restricting their appearance to loot chests in Abandoned Mineshafts. This made them quite difficult to acquire during this phase, leading players to perceive them as rare.
Current Availability (Minecraft 1.18+)
With the release of Minecraft 1.18, the Caves & Cliffs: Part II update, Lush Caverns were fully implemented and began generating naturally underground. This significantly increased the natural spawn rate of Cave Vines with Glow Berries, making them much more common and easily accessible. Once a Lush Cavern biome is located, Glow Berries are usually found in abundance.
How to Find Glow Berries
While they are no longer considered rare, knowing where to look is key:
- Lush Caverns: This is the most reliable place to find Glow Berries. Look for Azalea trees on the surface, as they often indicate a Lush Cavern directly beneath them. Once inside, Glow Berries will be growing on Cave Vines hanging from the ceiling.
- Abandoned Mineshafts: You can find Glow Berries as loot in minecart chests within Abandoned Mineshafts. This was one of the primary methods to obtain them in 1.17.
- Wandering Trader: Occasionally, a Wandering Trader may offer Glow Berries for sale, usually for an emerald or two.
Acquisition Methods Overview
| Method | Rarity of Method | Glow Berry Abundance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lush Caverns (Natural) | Common | Very High | Indicated by Azalea trees on the surface; most reliable. |
| Abandoned Mineshaft Loot | Uncommon | Low | Found in chest minecarts; less efficient for farming. |
| Wandering Trader | Rare | Low | RNG dependent, limited stock; useful for early game access. |
Farming Glow Berries
Once you obtain a single Glow Berry, you can easily farm them. This ensures that even if you initially find them rare, you will never run out:
- Place a Glow Berry: Right-click on the bottom or side of any solid block with a Glow Berry to plant a Cave Vine.
- Wait for Growth: The Cave Vine will grow downwards over time.
- Encourage Berries: To make the vine produce more Glow Berries, apply Bone Meal to it. This will cause more berries to grow on the existing vine.
- Harvest: Break the Glow Berries directly from the vine to collect them. You can use any tool or your hand.
Glow Berries provide a small amount of hunger restoration and can be used as a light source or a composting item. Their ease of farming makes them a sustainable resource once acquired.
