The Black Raspberry Kit consists of:
An optional extra – Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser R50. Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.
Dig a 50cm square hole and mix acid compost, potting soil if planting in a pot or any good draining soil for planting in the ground, and a bag of our Berry Mix.
Place the plant directly into the soil mixture and cover it with a mulch of pine bark or pine needles 5 – 15cm thick.
Raspberries thrive in moisture-retentive, fertile, slightly acidic soils, which are well-drained and weed-free. Well-decomposed compost should preferably be mixed with the soil before planting.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 4-5 months.
Pruning
Cut back dead canes during winter. Prune canes that have borne fruit to promote new growth. Pests – As Raspberries produce hardwood canes, watch out for borer.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.
