Maphis Nursery and Tree Farm
Making the World Beautiful One Plant at a Time
BLACKBERRIES THORNLESS AND THORNY
Blackberries grow wild in the Panhandle of Florida. Picked from tickets and along fences for years. They have been used for jelly, jam, pies and mom's famous blackberry doobie. (This is what mom called it. A mixture of sweetened berries, juice and dumplings).
The blackberry has been improved and is now planted in the family orchard and commercially. There are thornless and thorny varieties available.
Planting:
Plants purchased in pots may be set out any time. Bare root plants are usually received between December and February and should be planted immediately. If this is not possible, place in potting soil until you can plant. Plant in rows that will allow you to use your mower and other equipment. The plants may be placed about three feet apart. The best soil is deep, well-drained with a PH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Fertilization:
A soil test is always best and is available through your county agent. If this is not done, use 10-10-10 with minor elements for newly installed plants at the rate of 1/2 pound per plant or 5-6 pounds per 100 foot of row. Established plants will require up to 10 pounds per 100 ft of row in the late spring and after fruit has been harvested.
Irrigation:
Drip irrigation is the best way to water plants. This will also conserve water. The amount of water you may need will be based on your soil type. The roots of this plant are shallow and may dry out early.
Fruiting and propagation:
Blackberries produce fruit on two year old wood. The stem that comes up this year will produce fruit next year. The stem that produced fruit this year will die in the fall and need to be removed before the spring.
Extra berries may be obtained by transplanting any runners that come up in the mowing area back into the existing row or some other place. Transplant these December through February.