Use agricultural limestone to raise soil pH or use soil sulfur to lower pH if needed. The soil pH should fall within a range of 5.5 and 6.5 for blackberries. Prior to planting, take a soil test to determine current soil pH, phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) conditions. The roots should be completely covered by soil. If planting bare-root plants, dig a hole large enough for the roots to spread in the hole. Plant containerized plants in a prepared bed to the same depth as they are in the container. Blackberries are usually purchased as containerized plants but can sometimes be purchased as bare-root plants. Avoid late spring and summer plantings to reduce the stress that is brought on by the hotter weather. If you have more than one row, rows should be spaced about 6 feet apart.īlackberries can be planted in the fall, winter or spring. Actual spacing is dependent on the chosen variety. Blackberry plants are often planted in a hedge or row fashion, spacing the plants 2 to 4 feet apart.
It is best if the soil can be tilled to a depth of 12 to 18 inches prior to planting because blackberries have deep roots. Add recommended amendments based on LSU AgCenter Soil Testing and Plant Analysis Lab soil test results and incorporate amendments into the soil prior to planting. Take a sample from the upper 12 inches of soil to determine the pH and nutrient availability. Take soil samples from your newly cleared ground. See the weed management section on page 6. Prior to planting your blackberry shrubs, clear the site of any weeds. Shadier locations will produce nice shrubs but very little fruit. Blackberries require 1 to 2 inches of water per week.įull sun (a minimum of eight hours of direct sunlight daily) is required for healthy plants with good flowering and fruit production. Installing an irrigation system or planting near a water source is essential. While blackberries can grow in almost any soil, the optimal conditions are loam or sandy loam soils that are high in organic matter with a pH of 5.5-6.5.įor optimal production and fruit quality, blackberries need regular watering.
If your soil holds water for a long period of time, consider building high rows or raised beds. Lack of proper drainage will lead to root death, plant stress and increased susceptibility to insects and diseases. A home garden with two or three shrubs will produce plenty of berries for most families.īlackberries will grow in most soil types as long as they have good drainage. In fact, there are many “pick your own,” farmers market and roadside stand blackberries produced on very small plots. The important fact to remember is you do not need large plantings of blackberry shrubs to make a substantial amount of fruit. Blackberries can be grown in the home garden or on a commercial scale. Many varieties are well adapted to growing conditions throughout the state. Blackberries (Rubus fruticosus) are native to Louisiana.
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