Raspberry Canes
SUCCESS WITH RASPBERRIES.
Plant Good Stock
Raspberry canes available here have been passed as healthy by
Ministry inspectors.
Use Fresh Ground
Where possible, plant new canes in ground which has never cropped
raspberries before, to prevent the buildup of diseases. Avoid wet or boggy
areas - raspberries hate waterlogged soil. Some shade is acceptable.
Prepare The Ground
* Remove perennial weeds.
* Fork in organic matter - manure or compost.
* Work soil until it's fine and crumbly.
Care When Planting
* Soak roots in tepid water for an hour before planting.
* Plant to the depth of the old soil mark, at 18" (45cm) spacings, in
rows 6ft (1.8m) apart.
* Cut canes back to a bud 9-12" (23-30cm) above the soil.
Aftercare
* Water during dry periods
* Fertilise in spring with Growmore or blood, fish & bone meal, and
then mulch with compost or rotted farm manure.
* Spray if desired to control pests and diseases.
* Use netting to protect ripening fruit from birds.
Sunsequently
* Erect a post and wire training system.
* Prune summer fruiting varieties in autumn, cutting fruited stems to the
ground. Tie in around 8 of the strongest new shoots and remove the
rest.
* Prune autumn fruiting varieties in mid winter, cutting all canes to the
ground. Tie in new shoots as they grow in spring.