Rebus species

The blackberry is one of the most popular cane fruits grown. It is also found growing wild and can become a weed in gardens, especially if neglected. Cultivated blackberries- cultivars - are the ones to grow; there are both thornless and thorny versions. In the US there are cultivars suited to various climates, so it is important to select blackberries suited to your area. A local nursery will be able to supply appropriate cultivars. The fruits of all cultivars ripen in summer or autumn.

Cultivation

Blackberries are not difficult to grow provided you have chosen cultivars that are suited to your climate. They should be planted in full sun for optimum growth and fruit production and the plants should be sheltered from strong winds. Like other berry fruits, they should be bought dormant and bare-rooted, in winter, and planted out as soon as possible at about 3 m (10 ft) intervals. A trellis, or wires between posts, will be needed for training and support. The soil should be well prepared by digging in animal manure or compost a month or more before planting. As new growth commences, apply a light dressing of blood, fish and bone or other slow release fertilizer. Mulching around the plants conserves moisture and improves growing conditions. Most trailing berries produce fruit on the canes produced in the previous year. Pruning of blackberries consists of cutting out completely all canes which have produced fruits. This is best done in late winter. The new, unfruited canes are then trained into their supports. The most commonly used method of training canes is the fan system, where stems are trained into the shape of a fan. The new canes are tied into the center of the fan as they grow and after pruning are spaced out into the fan shape.

Climate

In general, zones 6-8, but it is more important to choose cultivars suited to your climate.