Key is to regularly water newly-planted bushes, at least bimonthly for two months. It is also important to ensure adequate spacing (40-60cm) between bushes.
With bare root plants, it's important to soak its roots in water for up to 2 hours before planting, while with potted plants it is important to drench the rootball. With bare root plants, dig a hole so as to ensure its first roots are no more than 2 inches below ground level, while with containerised plants, ensure the pot sits no lower than an inch below ground
Dig a hole twice the radius of the rootball. Fill the hole with a mix of compost and garden soil, and add fertiliser and mycorrhizal fungi. Do not compress the soil. Give your plant a good watering. Add mulch on top whether bark and wood chippings, compost, manure, leaf-mould and stones. Make sure mulch doesn't touch the stem.
Blackberry bushes are extremely easy to grow. Below we address some common queries:
- Hardiness: as blackberry plants are native to the UK, they will not be die in the cold.
- Position: in the UK, the greatest barrier to successful fruiting is a lack of sunlight, so planting in full sun is recommended, although blackberries will tolerate light shade. Planting your bush in a sheltered spot will help prevent uprooting and allow it to put more resources into fruiting. As blackberries are tied to supports, planting against a south facing wall is useful.
- Soil Types: Soil types are best ignored and remain an unwelcome confusion. Every plant will adapt to its conditions. Having said that, less than ideal conditions will reduce growth. Waterlogged soils will starve your plant of oxygen, which plays a key role in photosynthesis, cause its roots to rot and create the perfect environment for many diseases.
Primrose