Raspberry bushes need to be properly supported in order to thrive. This can be accomplished in a number of ways. You can use a trellis or fence, but one of the easiest and most effective ways to support raspberries is with a simple scaffolding. This type of structure helps keep the canes and fruit off the ground while allowing enough walking space on either side for picking the fruits.
First, make a trench in the ground about 20cm deep and 45cm to 60cm apart (18in to 24in). Next, line this trench with compost or manure. Plant your berries in this hole so that the crown of the plant is about 1 or 2 inches above the ground level. The roots will grow from the bottom of the trench and spread out from there.
Select a site that is rich and well-drained, with good air circulation and shelter from wind. It should also be a location that is away from wild berries and brambles, since wild berry pests can infect your cultivated berries.
Plan to plant your berries in early spring, after the threat of frost has passed. They prefer warm weather and good air circulation, so the ideal planting location should have plenty of sunshine and a soil that is well drained.
Once you have planted your berries, water them regularly to keep them hydrated. Do not overwater or let the plants dry out in dry periods as this can cause rot.
When your berries are ready for harvest, it is important to pick them as soon as possible. If you wait too long, the fruit will begin to ‘turn’ and birds will begin feasting on them. You can also freeze your crop for later use or share the ripe fruit with friends and family.
If you have a garden, you can try a number of different varieties that will ripen throughout the year. Summer-fruiting raspberries produce fruit in June and July, while autumn-fruiting varieties ripen between August and October.
Choose varieties that are hardy to your zone and that will grow well in your area. It’s best to buy disease-free plants at a reputable nursery or garden dealer.
Decide which berry variety you want to grow, and be sure to choose only those that have been certified virus-free. It’s also a good idea to select cultivars that have been grown under sterile conditions to avoid the spread of diseases.
Pruning your raspberries is the key to maximizing production and maintaining their health. It’s crucial to prune after fruiting to remove dead canes and encourage new growth. Then, in early March, apply a slow-release general fertilizer and mulch with manure.
For the best results, you should also prune out any wild brambles or other weeds that may be nearby to ensure a weed-free planting. This will help prevent the spread of disease and improve your fruit’s quality.
To make a scaffolding for your raspberries, you will need several levels of wire or twine that are attached to sturdy support posts. The wires or twine should be placed about 4 1/2 feet above the ground.
