GARDENER'S READING ROOM
Edibles

Raspberries

Raspberries are an ideal Northwest fruit, thriving in our mild winters and cool summers. You can expect these long-lived plants to remain productive for 15-20 years, so it is important to select and prepare the planting site with that in mind.

Good drainage is the key to success; raspberries are susceptible to root rot and cannot tolerate wet feet. If your soil is heavy or wet, plant raspberries in raised beds. Raspberries also require a sunny location and ample space and support. Sky's raspberries are bundled five plants per pot; each individual cane should be planted 18" apart, in rows 5" apart. The canes will require some sort of trellis; a post and wire system is commonly used.

When planting, trim the canes back to 6-8" and plant them 1-2" deeper than they grew in the pot. Apply Whitney Farms Smart Start when planting. Fertilize again with Whitney Farms Rose & Flower Food in mid-spring and again after your first harvest. You will want to keep the canes watered during our summer drought for good berry production.

Raspberries reproduce abundantly, making it tempting to take offshoots from a friend, but we recommend purchasing certified stock to avoid introducing root rot organisms or viruses into your soil. Sky is offering twelve varieties this year, including the ever popular Meeker and Amity. We would be happy to help you select the variety that best suits your use.

By Lynn Wright, C.P.H.
Skylights Spring 2004 Vol 18, No. 2

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