Position
Red Raspberry plants thrive in full sun (about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily). But, it tolerates partial shade and freezing temperatures when necessary. Plant yours in a spot as protected from the wind as possible. It grows well on a trellis or a fence since it’s a bramble. Each bush should have at least 1 metre around it to spread comfortably, and rows of brambles should have about 3 metres between them.
Size
It grows to a height of between 90 and 150 centimetres, and stretches 60 to 90 centimetres in width.
Soil Type
Plant your red raspberry bramble in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.8 and 6.8. Your soil must be fertile and drain well, retaining enough moisture for your plant to thrive. Keep weeds away.
Dig a 50cm x 50cm deep hole and add a bag of acid compost with the ultimate soil combination for your Raspberry Plant:
volcanic rock dust contains trace elements and organic minerals to boost your soil’s health and increase essential micro-organisms.
Watering
This bramble needs plenty of water, especially during hot weather. In general, you can water your plants twice a week. If the weather is hot and dry, water them daily. Avoid wetting the stems and leaves too much to prevent them from rotting.
Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch away from the stem. Pine bark or green pine needles make excellent mulch because they lower the pH and add nutrients to the soil.
Fertilising
Our slow-release berry fertiliser is an optional extra! When planting your tree, use between 5 and 15 centimetres of mulch to boost the soil.
Pruning
In the winter, prune back the canes that bore fruit in the summer to promote new growth and keep your bramble tidy. After the last summer harvest, promptly remove the old stems at the soil level.
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.
Harvesting
Raspberries are ready for harvesting when fully ripe and easily come off the plant when gently tugged. Harvest regularly to ensure you pick them at their peak flavour and quality.
