Boysenberry

Boysenberries need full sun, fertile well-drained soil near pH 6.0-6.5, and a sturdy trellis for their long trailing canes. Feed moderately in spring and protect the overwintering canes in climates near their hardiness limit.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

48 in

First harvest

1–2 years

Tips

• Set nursery plants at their previous depth about 6-8 feet apart, leaving room to train trailing canes.
• Water deeply through the establishment season and keep soil evenly moist during berry growth.
• Top-dress with compost and use a soil-test-based spring fertilizer rather than heavy late feeding.
• Train first-year canes to wires and remove second-year canes after harvest, watching for cane lesions and dieback.
• Expect the main crop after canes overwinter, and pick soft, deep maroon berries that release easily.

Plant dormant rooted canes in early spring or container plants in spring in a site suited to their winter hardiness.