Blackberry plants grow and grow and grow. The many long rods intertwine and bend to the ground. To avoid this, they have to be tied to a stable structure. Upright growing varieties promise a bit more overview and ease of care.
What is typical for upright growing blackberries?
Only one variety of blackberry that has this growth characteristic produces upright shoots. You don't have to tie up your stable shoots, asupport to lean on is enough Carry out a columnar cut between February and the beginning of March. Propagation is achieved via root runners and root cuttings.
When should I choose an upright growing variety?
Upright-growing varieties are particularly suitable when the available location offerslittle space. For example, for a very small or already richly planted garden.pot culture on the balcony or terrace is also easier to achieve with upright growing blackberries. But upright blackberry varieties also offer advantages in a large garden. They are easier to care for and easier to harvest.
Which upright growing varieties are there?
Well-known upright growing and mostly thornless varieties are:
- ‘Asterina’
- ‘Black Satin’
- ‘Choctaw’
- ‘Navaho’
- ‘Ouachita’
- 'Wilson's Early'
The variety recommendation includes semi-upright growing varieties such as 'Loch Tay', 'Loch Ness' and 'Chester Thornless'.
Which climbing aid do upright growing blackberries need?
Upright growing blackberries require little support; a trellis is not necessary. For example, you can plant themnear a fence or wall. You can place blackberries in pots against a wall or tie them to a sturdy plant stick.
How is the column cut done?
The training of the blackberry bush begins when it is planted. Leave only the two strongest shoots standing. Cut off the remaining ground shoots close to the ground. From the second year onwards, the column cut is then carried out regularly inFebruary, March at the latest, as follows:
- use sharp and disinfected cutting tools
- removing worn rods
- leave only 10 to 15 cm long stubs
- new canes can sprout from sleeping eyes in spring
- alternatively cut close to the ground and plant on ground shoots
- select two young strong canes as new main shoots
- Main shootsto the desired lengthshorten
- Cut back side shoots, to two buds each
- Place the scissors about 5-10 mm above an outer bud
Do I have to care for upright blackberries differently?
Apart from cutting and supporting, the care does not differ from the climbing varieties. Fertilize once a year in spring with an organic slow-release fertilizer. During a longer dry period, blackberries that are rooted in sandy soil should be watered in particular.
Tip
Blackberry leaves are edible
Whether climbing or upright, all blackberries need to be cut back regularly. Don't throw away the leaves! Blackberry leaves are edible and he althy, in salads, smoothies or as tea.
