Blackberries are delicious fruits that are relatively easy to grow, making them a perfect addition to any garden. They are a relatively low-maintenance crop that can thrive in a variety of soils, and many modern varieties are thornless, making them easy to manage and harvest. The climate in Zone 6 is great for blackberries.
You can also forage Wild Blackberries which often grow in fields and along forest edges. They produce smaller berries but are highly vigorous and even invasive in some regions.
Types of Blackberries
Blackberries come in several types, each with unique characteristics, growing habits, and regional preferences. Understanding the differences between these three types of blackberries can help you choose the most suitable varieties for your growing conditions. I love blackberries, here are my favorites. (You can also forage wild blackberries - see below)
Erect Blackberries:
Erect blackberries, also known as caneberries, are characterized by their sturdy, upright canes that don't require support for growth. They typically produce fruit on second-year canes, making them relatively easy to manage and harvest.
Navaho: Known for its excellent flavor and thornless canes.
Arapaho: Early ripening and also thornless, it has a firm berry.
Cherokee: Vigorous, disease-resistant variety with medium-sized, sweet berries.
Nelson: Erect, thorny upright canes that are very hardy and productive. Large juicy fruit. Disease resistant. Producing a lot of fruit in late July/Early August.
2. Trailing Blackberries:
Trailing blackberries are known for their long, trailing canes that require some form of support, such as a trellis or fence, to keep them off the ground. These varieties tend to have larger berries but may be more challenging to maintain due to their sprawling growth habit.
Marionberry: A popular trailing variety known for its tart-sweet flavor, often used in jams, pies, and wine.
Boysenberry: A cross between a blackberry, raspberry, and loganberry, this variety produces large, sweet berries.
Olallieberry: Similar to the marionberry but a bit earlier in the season, with juicy, sweet-tart berries.
3. Semi-Erect Blackberries:
Semi-erect blackberries exhibit characteristics of both erect and trailing varieties, with canes that are partially self-supporting but may also benefit from some form of assistance. They offer a middle ground in terms of ease of cultivation and berry size.
Triple Crown Thornless
Thornless, semi-erect canes are very productive with yields of 13 lbs/per plant! I grew mine along a garden fence so they had some support. Will get 6 feet tall if you let it but can be pruned to a more manageable 4 feet tall.
Chester
Excellent berry with great flavor. Tolerates hot dry weather so good for zone 6 folks in western states. Summer-bearing floricane. Thornless, semi-erect.
Amazon has a good stock of blackberry plants and as always I recommend Fedco Seeds for great blackberries!
Blackberry plants
Choosing the Right Variety
Before you start growing blackberries in Zone 6, it's important to select the right variety that is well-suited for the climate in your region.
Most blackberries are self-fertile and produce both male and female flowers. However, like with other self-fertile fruits, you will get better production when you plant at least two.
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Planting
Blackberries thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. When selecting a site for planting, choose an area with full sun exposure and good air circulation.
Plant blackberries in early spring or late fall when the soil is workable. Plant 3-4 plants per person for fresh eating and having some to preserve.
Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility. Aim for a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral, which is optimal for blackberry growth.
Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the blackberry plant's root system. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. Ensure that the plant is placed at the same level as it was in the container.
Don’t plant blackberries too deep. The crown should be level with the soil line and the roots close to the surface. If you purchase potted berries plant them at the same depth they were in the pot.
When planting blackberries, set the plants at the same depth they were growing in the nursery, ensuring that the crown (where the roots meet the stems) is level with the soil surface. Water the newly planted blackberries thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Spacing
Spacing depends on the type of blackberry you are growing.
Semi-erect cultivars 5 to 6 feet apart
Erect cultivars 3 feet apart
Trailing cultivars 5 to 8 feet apart.
Space rows about 8 feet apart.
Experts advise against planting blackberries near raspberries to separate them by 75-100 feet. This is because raspberries are more susceptible to viral diseases carried by aphids from nearby plants.
Honestly, I don’t do this and never had any problems except with yellow raspberries.
You can read my article Brambles Are The Best: Raspberries in Zone 6 to learn more.
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Training and Support
Blackberry canes can become sprawling if left unmanaged, so it's essential to provide support and training, especially for semi-erect or trailing varieties.
On my farm, I grew both erect and semi-erect blackberries along a fence and they seemed to like it there.
Install a trellis system or use sturdy stakes and wires to support the canes and encourage upright growth. As the blackberry canes grow, gently tie them to the trellis or support structure to prevent them from flopping over.
Blackberries often need support.
Small Gardens
Growing blackberries in small urban gardens is not only possible but can be incredibly rewarding. Many modern blackberry varieties, especially thornless or dwarf types, are perfect for compact spaces, patios, or even container gardening.
Erect blackberry varieties, which grow upright, are an excellent choice for urban settings because they require less horizontal space and can be supported with trellises or stakes.
Containers should be at least 24 inches wide and deep to accommodate the plant’s roots. Choose a good-quality, well-draining potting mix and add plenty of compost. Stark Bro’s has a variety called Bushel and Berry® that they designed for container growing.
Blackberries need at least six hours of sunlight daily, making them ideal for partially sunny balconies, patios, or small backyard spaces where they can soak up the light and thrive.
They will also thrive in part shade - check out my video on fruits that grow well in shade.
Pruning
Blackberries require annual pruning to remove old canes and encourage new growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Blackberries are perennials however the canes actually grow as biennials. The canes grow the first year and then the next year they will bear fruit. These second-year canes are called floricanes.
After they produce fruit you will need to cut them out of the plant because they will not produce again. Every year the plant grows new canes to replace those that die.
Pruning is essential for blackberry plants to promote productivity and manage growth. In late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, prune out any dead, damaged, or diseased canes. Additionally, thin out overcrowded canes to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Care and Maintenance
Watering: Consistent moisture is crucial for blackberry plants, especially during the growing season and fruit development. Water deeply and regularly, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing: Use my secret sauce when planting. Mulch with 2 inches of compost and cover with bark.
Mulching: Use mulch to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the roots during winter. I like shredded bark for brambles.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect blackberries, such as aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Raspberry Borers can also affect blackberries.
Consider using organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil, to manage pest infestations while minimizing harm to beneficial insects. Put blackberries on your orchard maintenance schedule.
Here’s a list of some of the more common problems blackberry plants face and how to address them organically.
Common Pests and Organic Solutions
Aphids
Identification: Small, soft-bodied insects found on the underside of leaves.
Organic Solutions:
Neem Oil: Spray neem oil diluted in water directly on the affected plants. Neem oil disrupts the life cycle of aphids, preventing them from reproducing.
Ladybugs: Release ladybugs in your garden. These beneficial insects feed on aphids, helping to control their population.
Soap Spray: Mix a few drops of mild liquid soap with water and spray on the affected areas. This solution suffocates aphids without harming the plant.
2.Spider Mites
Identification: Tiny, spider-like creatures that create fine webs on the underside of leaves.
Organic Solutions:
Water Spray: Regularly spray the plants with a strong stream of water to knock off spider mites.
Horticultural Oil: Apply horticultural oil to suffocate spider mites. Ensure thorough coverage of leaves and stems.
Beneficial Insects: Introduce predatory mites or lacewings that naturally prey on spider mites.
3. Japanese Beetles
Identification: Metallic green beetles that feed on leaves, leaving behind skeletonized foliage.
Organic Solutions:
Handpicking: Regularly inspect plants and remove beetles by hand. Drop them into a bucket of soapy water to kill them.
Companion Planting: Plant garlic, chives, or tansy near blackberries. These plants can deter Japanese beetles.
Neem Oil: Neem oil can also be effective in controlling Japanese beetle larvae in the soil.
4. Raspberry Cane Borer
Identification: Insects that bore into the stems, causing wilted tips and swollen areas on canes.
Organic Solutions:
Pruning: Cut and destroy infested canes below the swollen area to prevent the spread of borers.
Beneficial Nematodes: Apply beneficial nematodes to the soil to attack borer larvae before they can damage the canes.
Trap Crops: Plant trap crops like raspberries nearby to attract borers away from your blackberries.
Common Diseases and Organic Solutions
Anthracnose
Identification: Fungal disease causing grayish-brown spots on leaves and canes, leading to dieback.
Organic Solutions:
Pruning: Remove and destroy infected canes and leaves to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Neem Oil: Apply neem oil as a fungicide to prevent and treat infections.
Proper Spacing: Ensure adequate spacing between plants for good air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
2. Botrytis (Gray Mold)
Identification: Gray, fuzzy mold that affects flowers and fruit, causing them to rot.
Organic Solutions:
Good Air Circulation: Prune plants to improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the berries.
Organic Mulch: Use straw or wood chips to mulch around plants, keeping berries off the soil and reducing mold risk.
Baking Soda Spray: Mix baking soda with water and a few drops of liquid soap to create a foliar spray that can help prevent mold.
3. Powdery Mildew
Identification: White, powdery fungal growth on leaves and stems.
Organic Solutions:
Milk Spray: Mix 1 part milk with 9 parts water and spray on the affected plants. Milk has antifungal properties that can combat powdery mildew.
Sulfur: Dusting plants with sulfur can help prevent and treat powdery mildew, but use cautiously as it can burn plants in hot weather.
Resistant Varieties: Plant disease-resistant blackberry varieties to reduce the risk of infection.
4. Verticillium Wilt
Identification: Wilting of leaves and canes, yellowing, and stunted growth caused by soil-borne fungi.
Organic Solutions:
Crop Rotation: Avoid planting blackberries in soil where tomatoes, potatoes, or eggplants have recently grown, as they can harbor fungi.
Soil Solarization: Use clear plastic to cover and heat the soil, killing soil-borne pathogens before planting.
Compost and Mulch: Maintain soil health with organic compost and mulch to encourage beneficial microorganisms that combat harmful fungi.
Foraging for Wild Blackberries
Foraging for wild blackberries can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity that will connect you with nature as well as provide an opportunity to enjoy fresh, organic berries.
My son loved taking the dogs and a bucket and going down into the back fields to pick blackberries every summer. His reward was a fresh blackberry cobbler and a fun afternoon romping with the dog clan.
Blackberries are abundant in many parts of North America, particularly in the late summer and early fall months.
When foraging for wild blackberries, make sure you have permission to forage on the land you are exploring, whether it's public or private property. Always respect the environment and only take only what you need, being mindful not to overharvest or disturb the natural ecosystem.
Wild blackberries have thorns so wear appropriate clothing as the thorny bushes can easily scratch exposed skin. Long sleeves, pants, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bringing along a pair of gloves can also help protect your hands while picking the berries.
Use caution when reaching into bushes to pick berries, as blackberries attract bees and other stinging insects. In addition, if you are foraging in bear country be mindful of them as well.
When selecting blackberries, look for plump, fully ripe berries that are deep black in color. Avoid berries that are mushy or have mold growing on them.
Once you have gathered your blackberries, be sure to properly clean and inspect them before consuming. Rinse the berries in cold water and remove any stems, leaves, or debris that may be attached.
Biodiversity
Their flowers provide a rich source of nectar and pollen, attracting a wide range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. By planting blackberries, we help sustain pollinator populations, which are vital to maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
In urban areas where green spaces are limited, blackberries play an essential role in creating pockets of habitat for these beneficial insects. The dense foliage and structure of blackberry plants also offer shelter for small mammals and birds.
Butterflies, such as the painted lady and monarch, are frequent visitors to blackberry flowers, benefiting from the nectar and adding to the beauty and diversity of the garden. Once the blackberries fruit, they provide a food source for wildlife like birds, which helps to disperse seeds.
Blackberries are loved by native and honey bees. Ever heard of blackberry honey? YUM!
Check out my article Raising Honeybees: Step by Step With Pictures
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Nutrition
Growing blackberries not only enhances your garden’s biodiversity but also provides substantial health benefits. Blackberries are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a nutrient-dense addition to your diet.
They are rich in vitamins C and K, and support immune function, skin health, and bone strength, while their high antioxidant content helps reduce inflammation and prevent disease.
Harvesting
Blackberries are typically ready for harvest in late summer to early fall. Pick the fruits when they are fully ripe and easily detach from the plant with a gentle tug. Avoid picking unripe berries, as they will not ripen off the plant.
Blackberries typically ripen from mid to late summer, depending on the variety. Harvest the berries when they are fully ripe, plump, and easily detach from the plant with a gentle tug. Be careful when handling ripe blackberries, as they are delicate and prone to bruising.
Once harvested, blackberries can be enjoyed fresh, frozen for later use, or used in a variety of culinary creations, such as pies, jams, and smoothies. Share the bounty with friends and family, or preserve the harvest to enjoy the flavors of summer throughout the year.
Ways to Use Blackberries
Blackberry Jam or Preserves: Make homemade blackberry jam or preserves to enjoy on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Blackberry Sauce: Blend blackberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a flavorful sauce perfect for drizzling over desserts like cheesecake or pound cake.
Blackberry Cobbler: Bake a classic blackberry cobbler with a buttery biscuit topping for a comforting dessert.
Blackberry Pie: Create a delicious pie with a flaky crust filled with sweetened blackberries. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra indulgence.
Blackberry Smoothie: Blend blackberries with yogurt, banana, and a splash of almond milk for a refreshing and nutritious smoothie.
Blackberry Muffins: Bake homemade blackberry muffins for a delightful breakfast or snack option.
Blackberry Salad: Toss fresh blackberries into a salad with mixed greens, goat cheese, nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of sweetness.
Blackberry Salsa: Combine diced blackberries with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice to make a vibrant and flavorful salsa. Serve with grilled fish or chicken.
Blackberry Vinaigrette: Blend blackberries with olive oil, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard to create a delicious vinaigrette for salads.
Blackberry BBQ Sauce: Make a tangy and sweet BBQ sauce by simmering blackberries with tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Perfect for glazing grilled meats or as a dipping sauce.
Blackberry Crisp: Bake a blackberry crisp with a crunchy oat topping for a simple yet satisfying dessert.
Blackberry Compote: Cook blackberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a versatile compote that can be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
Blackberry Ice Cream: Swirl blackberry puree into homemade vanilla ice cream for a fruity and refreshing treat.
Blackberry Infused Water: Add fresh blackberries to a pitcher of water along with some mint leaves for a refreshing and visually appealing infused water.
Blackberry Glaze: Make a glossy blackberry glaze by cooking blackberries with sugar and cornstarch. Drizzle over cakes or pastries for a burst of flavor.
These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and experiment with incorporating blackberries into your favorite recipes!
Author Ame Vanorio is the founder of Fox run EEC, lifelong organic farmer, and author. Check out her Author Page on Amazon.
