John M

Blackberries propagate in several ways, and the method you choose depends on whether you want fruit fast or you’re willing to wait for a stronger, longer-lived plant.   Blackberry plants spread naturally through underground stems called rhizomes, through tip layering where canes touch the ground, and through seeds dropped by birds and animals.   Gardeners … Read more

You can blackberries by picking them at peak ripeness and processing them in a water bath canner.   If you’ve been wondering how do you can blackberries, the good news is it’s one of the easiest home canning projects you can tackle.   Blackberries are high in acid, which means they’re safe for water bath … Read more

How deep to plant blackberry seeds is a question that trips up a lot of new growers.   The short answer is that blackberry seeds should be planted about ⅛ to ¼ inch deep.   That’s it.   Not an inch, not two inches, just a light dusting of soil over the top.   If … Read more

Blackberry roots typically grow between 12 and 24 inches deep in most garden soils.   That’s the short answer, but the story of how deep blackberry roots grow is actually more interesting than a single number.   If you’ve ever yanked at a blackberry cane and watched the ground refuse to let go, you already … Read more

You can prune thornless blackberries in late winter or early spring while the plants are still dormant.   This is the ideal window because the canes are leafless, making it easy to see what needs cutting.   Pruning thornless blackberries at the right time keeps your patch productive and healthy year after year.   If … Read more

You can prune blackberry vines in late winter or early spring while the plants are still dormant.   That window is the sweet spot because blackberry vines haven’t started pushing out new growth yet.   You should also plan a second round of pruning in summer right after the harvest finishes.   Knowing how and … Read more