Maintaining adequate moisture levels is of utmost importance for blackberries. This doesn’t just apply during the spring and summer growth and fruiting period, but also in the fall as they work to store energy for the next year.
Brambles thrive on approximately one inch of rainwater or hand watering on a weekly basis for optimal production. It’s crucial to ensure that your blackberry and raspberry plants receive sufficient water right up until the occurrence of the first frost. This practice will help guarantee that the plants have reserved enough water to carry them through the winter season.
In numerous regions, winter often brings strong and gusty winds. It’s imperative to shield any above-ground canes during this season. This can be achieved by introducing windbreaks or covering the plants before the first severe freeze.
One crucial consideration is to ensure that the covering doesn’t allow snow to accumulate and potentially snap delicate canes. If you employ a trellis system, the autumn season is an opportune time to meticulously inspect it. Look out for any weak supports that might give way. This way, when spring arrives, your plants can thrive without any concerns.
By taking these straightforward measures to ready your blackberry and raspberry plants for winter, you’re paving the way for a remarkable harvest in the coming year.