Blackberry Planting Instructions

• Unpack and soak in warm NOT hot water for 3 to 6 hours just before planting.
• If your new blackberry shrubs have not been cut back already, cut the canes to 6″-8″. By pruning back the canes in the first season, you will not have a crop the first year, but you will allow the plants to put their energy into developing a strong root system. The plants will be healthier and more productive in the long run.
• Dig hole(s): The width of the hole should allow you to spread roots. If you are planting multiple blackberries dig the holes 2’-4’ apart. If you are creating several rows, dig holes 6’- 12’ apart. Place the blackberry shrub in the hole, positioning it so that the crown of the shrub, where the stem and the roots join, is level with the surrounding soil.
• Spread roots in hole.
• Backfill hole.
• Water thoroughly. They will need a steady supply of water to help them get established. Water blackberries plants during the day. Water more frequently for 2-3 weeks after planting. As a rule of thumb, the top inch of soil should be kept moist during the first 2-3 weeks.
• Add fertilizer: A weak liquid nitrogen fertilizer may be applied at planting. KEEP fertilizer 3”-4” away from the base of the plant to avoid burning the roots.
• Mulch the first year to keep the weeds down and increase crop yield.
• Prefers acidic to slightly basic (6.0 – 7.0), well drained, organic soil. However they will adapt to most soil types except alkaline and wet. If you have clay soil you will need to amend with organic matter (organic mulch, wet peat moss, well-aged sawdust, straw or leaf litter.
• Blackberries are self-pollinating.

Planting Tips

We have prepared your plants so they can ship without dying. We have added soil moist to the roots to preserve water around them and to keep them from drying out. PLEASE TRY TO PLANT WITHIN 72 HOURS. Water well. They may be wilted due to shipping shock, but soak plant in bucket of water prior to planting. This will allow the plant to take more water up to the stem. Depending on the weather it may take 3 to 4 weeks to break dormancy and show leaves. If you have leaves already and they are wilting see above and do not worry. They will come back out and sprout new leaves. Please be patient! Enjoy.

Frequently asked Questions

Can I grow these in my area?

To find out if a plant will grow in you area you need to Google your hardiness zone and check that with hardiness zone for the plant. You can also look at the USDA or the Department of Agriculture in your area.

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