Rubus idaeus
Family: Rosaceae

Difficult though it is to believe, raspberries still grow wild all over Europe. This plant bears white flowers that develop into the sweet, aromatic fruits that are mostly red, but can also be purple, black or yellow. The latter are occasionally available in specialist markets. Raspberries may be eaten fresh, or they can be made into delicious jams and tarts. They are also available in canned or frozen form. Owing to the perishable nature of the fruit, fresh rasp-berries tend to be quite expensive.

Varieties

Rubus idaeus, European raspberry, is a slightly prickly, deciduous perennial which sends up canes of 1.5-2 m (5-6 ft) in height every two years. The canes fruit in the second year. However, autumn-fruiting raspberries fruit on the current year's canes. There are many cultivars of the European raspberry available, some fruiting in summer and others fruiting in autumn. It is important to buy certified stock from a reputable fruit specialist to ensure that the plants are free from virus.

Cultivation

Raspberries are very hardy so can be grown easily in cool and cold climates. They prefer well-drained soil, with added organic matter, and it must not be allowed to dry out. They also need a sunny position and protection from strong winds. The best planting time in temperate climates is late autumn, but spring is better in cold climates. Set plants 40 cm (16 in) apart in rows spaced 2 m (6 ft) apart, and running north to south. Canes of plants that fruit in the summer are cut back to 20 cm (8 in) after planting, and autumn-fruiting raspberries are cut to soil level. Provide posts and horizontal wires in order to support the weight of the canes. Tie in the canes as required. Once they start fruiting, raspberries should be pruned annually. Summer-fruiting raspberries have the old, fruited canes cut right down to soil level immediately after the berries have been harvested. Autumn-fruiting raspberries have all their canes pruned down to the ground in winter. Feed annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, and apply a mulch. Water as necessary in summer. Raspberries are prone to numerous diseases and pests but undoubtedly the most serious are viruses as there is no cure for these. They are spread by aphids, so keep these pests under control. Buy virus-free plants from a nursery and if plants subsequently become infected dig up and destroy them.

Climate

Zone 3.