Position
Plant your black raspberry bush in full sun in a position sheltered from strong winds. Although black raspberries will tolerate partial shade, they generally produce the best growth and fruit crops in full sun.
Established plants are cold-hardy and can tolerate considerable winter cold, although the exact temperature tolerance depends on the variety and growing conditions. Young growth, flowers and developing fruit are more vulnerable to frost.
Size
Black raspberries are vigorous brambles that produce long, arching canes. The canes can reach approximately 2 to 3 metres in length, so give the plant plenty of room to grow.
Although black raspberries do not actually climb, they benefit from a trellis, fence or other support. Tie the long canes loosely to the support to keep the plant manageable, improve airflow and make harvesting easier.
Soil Type
Black raspberries prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of approximately 5.5 to 6.5.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly while the plant is establishing and during flowering and fruit development.
During very hot, dry weather, check the soil regularly and water deeply when necessary. In cooler weather, watering two or three times a week may be sufficient, depending on rainfall, soil type, and whether the plant is growing in the ground or a container.
Avoid shallow, excessive watering. The soil should remain moist but never waterlogged, as constantly wet conditions can encourage root rot.
Black raspberries can be planted throughout the year, provided the soil is not waterlogged and newly planted bushes are protected from extreme heat and kept adequately watered while establishing.
Mulching
Apply Pine Bark Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds and protect the root zone.
Keep the mulch away from direct contact with the base of the canes. Constantly damp mulch against the canes can encourage rot and disease, particularly on young growth.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release Berry Fertiliser, every 4-5 months.
Pruning
Black raspberries generally produce fruit on second-year canes, known as floricanes. Once a cane has finished fruiting, cut it back to ground level, as it will not produce another crop.
Leave the healthy new first-year canes, known as primocanes, as these will produce the following season’s crop.
During winter, remove any remaining dead, damaged, weak, or diseased canes and thin overcrowded growth to improve airflow and light penetration.
Pests and Diseases
Black raspberries may occasionally be affected by aphids, mites and other common garden pests. If aphids or mites are present, first dislodge them with a strong spray of water. Once the foliage has dried, treat with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) these products will assist in prevention if applied regularly.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Harvesting
Our black raspberry variety has multiple fruit flushes, but generally starts fruiting during the middle of the summer season and can continue right through winter, if the cold is not too harsh.
