Planting Your New Blackberry Bush

Sunlight: Choose a location with full sun (6-8 hours daily).

Soil: Ensure well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Conduct a soil test and amend if needed.

• Plant in early spring after the last frost.
• Space plants 4-5 feet apart, with 8-10 feet between rows.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant the crown at soil level.
• Water thoroughly after planting.

Fertilization

• First Year: Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring.
• Subsequent Years: Fertilize in spring and again after harvest.

Pruning

• After planting: Cut canes to 6 inches above the soil.
• Annual pruning: In early spring, remove dead or damaged canes and tip-prune the remaining ones to encourage branching.
• After fruiting: Remove spent canes (floricanes) at ground level.

Mulching

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves) around the plant base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Trellising

Install a two-wire trellis (wires at 3 and 5 feet). Train canes along the wires in a fan pattern for better support and easier harvest.

Winter Care

In colder regions, apply a thicker mulch layer to protect roots. Consider covering plants with burlap if temperatures fall below 10°F.

Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water more often during periods of drought.

Regularly inspect plants for pests like cane borers or diseases like anthracnose. Remove affected parts and use appropriate treatments if necessary.

Pick berries when they are fully black, shiny, and firm. Harvest every 2-3 days and refrigerate promptly.