How to Grow Raspberries - Complete growing guide

Raspberries are delicious and nutritious fruits that are easy to grow in your backyard garden. They are a great source of vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. In this blog post, we will discuss the various aspects of growing raspberries, from selecting the right variety to maintaining the plant's health and productivity.

Plant Selection - 
The first step in growing raspberries is to select the right variety. There are two types of raspberries: summer-bearing and everbearing. Summer-bearing raspberries produce fruit once a year, while everbearing raspberries produce fruit twice a year – once in summer and once in fall.

When selecting a variety, consider the climate of your region, the available space, and your personal preferences. Popular varieties of summer-bearing raspberries include 'Heritage,' 'Royalty purple,' 'prelude' and 'Double Gold'. Everbearing varieties include 'Autumn and 'Fall Gold.'

Many gardeners think that they need multiple varieties to set fruit, this is untrue. Raspberries are self fruitful, meaning just one will set fruit. However, if you have more than one plant the odds of setting fruit are increased. 

Soil -
Raspberries grow best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level of 5.5-6.5. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and structure. It is also essential to remove any weeds or grass from the planting site and loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches.

Planting - 
Raspberries can be planted in the early spring or fall, depending on the variety and the climate. Space the plants 2-3 feet apart in rows that are 6 feet apart. Plant them at the same depth they were in their containers, and water thoroughly after planting.

Raspberries can be planted in containers as well! For best results, use a deep container. This will keep them from spreading too which can be a benefit for those with less space. 

Plant care and maintenance - 
Raspberries require some training and pruning to maintain their health and productivity. The plants should be trained to grow on a trellis or a support system to keep them upright and to facilitate fruiting.

Summer-bearing raspberries should be pruned after harvest, in the late summer or early fall. Cut all the canes that produced fruit to the ground, leaving the new canes to grow for next year's crop. Everbearing raspberries should be pruned twice a year – once in the early spring and once in late summer or early fall. In the spring, cut all the canes that produced fruit the previous year to the ground, leaving the new canes to grow. In late summer or early fall, cut the top third of the new canes to encourage lateral branching.

Raspberries are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, raspberry crown borers, and root rot. To control pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any infested leaves or canes. To prevent disease, avoid overhead watering, and maintain good air circulation by pruning and thinning the plants regularly.

Watering and fertilizing - 
Raspberries require regular watering, especially during the fruiting season. Water deeply once a week, providing 1-2 inches of water each time. Avoid watering the leaves, as this can promote fungal diseases. Watering fruit can also cause mold to develop on the soft flesh of the raspberry leading to grey mold. 

Fertilize raspberries in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, following the manufacturer's instructions. In the late spring or early summer, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, such as ammonium nitrate or blood meal, to encourage growth and fruiting.