Black Raspberry

Black raspberries need well-drained loam near pH 5.5-6.5, full sun, and space for arching canes. Use compost and moderate spring fertilizer, and tip new canes to develop the laterals that carry next year's fruit.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

36 in

First harvest

2 years

Tips

• Plant disease-free nursery plants about 3-4 feet apart in spring, keeping crowns at their original depth.
• Water establishing plants deeply and maintain consistent moisture while berries swell.
• Apply soil-test-based fertilizer in early spring and avoid late-season nitrogen.
• Pinch new canes at about 24-30 inches tall, support them, and remove spent second-year canes after harvest.
• Keep first-year harvests light if plants are weak, and pick fully dark berries that release easily while removing fruit with larvae.

Plant certified disease-free dormant plants in early spring or hardened-off container plants in spring.