Blackberries, with their plump, juicy fruits and sweettart flavor, are a beloved addition to British gardens. Whether enjoyed fresh, transformed into jams and pies, or used to infuse desserts and drinks, blackberries are a versatile and cherished fruit. However, the success of your blackberry patch begins with choosing the right blackberry plant variety. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore different blackberry varieties available to British gardeners and provide expert insights into what to consider when making your selection.
What to Consider When Buying Blackberry Plants
Before we delve into the world of blackberry varieties, take note that all of this is put together after we heed the advice from a ChrisBowers & Sons expert on what to be cautious about when searching for blackberry plants for sale.
Choose the Right Type
Blackberries come in various types, each with its unique characteristics. The two primary types are erect and trailing blackberries.
Erect Blackberries: Erect blackberries grow in a more upright, selfsupporting fashion, making them suitable for smaller gardens or spaces. They are typically thornless and easier to manage.
Trailing Blackberries: Trailing blackberries, as the name suggests, have a sprawling growth habit and require support or trellising. They can be thorny or thornless, and while they may need more space and care, they often produce larger, more flavorful berries.
Consider your garden space, preferred growth habit, and maintenance level when selecting the type of blackberry plant that suits you best.
Thornless vs. Thorny Varieties
One of the significant choices to make when selecting blackberry plants is between thornless and thorny varieties.
Thornless Blackberries: Thornless blackberry plants are more userfriendly, as they lack the prickly thorns that can make harvesting a thorny experience. They are ideal for families with children and for gardeners who prefer less hassle during harvest.
Thorny Blackberries: Thorny blackberry varieties often boast exceptional flavor and fruit quality. While the thorns may pose a challenge during harvesting, the reward of flavorful berries can be well worth it for passionate blackberry enthusiasts.
DiseaseFree Plants
To ensure the health and productivity of your blackberry patch, it’s crucial to buy certified diseasefree plants from a reputable source. Blackberry plants can be susceptible to diseases like rust and cankers. Reputable nurseries take great care to provide diseasefree blackberry plants, reducing the risk of problems down the line.
Consider the Fruiting Season
Different blackberry varieties bear fruit at different times of the year. Some produce an early summer crop, while others bear fruit in late summer and early autumn. Consider when you’d like to enjoy your blackberries and select varieties that align with your preferred fruiting season.
With these considerations in mind, let’s explore the delightful world of blackberry varieties and discover the perfect fit for your garden.
Thornless Blackberry Varieties
Loch Ness
Loch Ness blackberries are a popular thornless variety known for their long, slender fruits with a sweet, rich flavor. These blackberries are perfect for fresh eating, desserts, or making jams and preserves. Loch Ness blackberry plants are relatively compact and suitable for smaller gardens.
Chester
Chester blackberries are a thornless variety prized for their large, sweet, and juicy berries. They are known for their vigorous growth and disease resistance. Chester blackberry plants produce fruit in late summer and are ideal for both fresh consumption and preserving.
Thorny Blackberry Varieties
Oregon Thornless
Despite its name, the Oregon Thornless variety is a thorny blackberry known for its exceptional flavor. These blackberries are sweet and aromatic, making them a favorite among blackberry enthusiasts. While they require careful handling during harvest, the reward of flavorful berries is well worth it.
Triple Crown
Triple Crown blackberries are a thorny variety celebrated for their large, glossy black fruits with a sweet, tangy flavor. These blackberries are perfect for fresh eating, baking, and making jams. Triple Crown blackberry plants are vigorous growers and can produce abundant harvests.
Trailing Blackberry Varieties
Black Satin
Black Satin blackberries are a trailing thorny variety known for their sweet and juicy berries. These blackberries have a rich, earthy flavor and are ideal for fresh consumption, desserts, or preserving. Black Satin blackberry plants require trellising or support due to their trailing growth habit.
Marionberry
Marionberries are a renowned variety of trailing blackberries, known for their exceptional flavor and versatility. These blackberries are sweet and juicy, making them perfect for fresh eating, pies, and jams. Marionberry plants produce fruit in mid to late summer.
Tips for Growing Successful Blackberries
Once you’ve selected your blackberry varieties, it’s time to start your blackberrygrowing journey. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve a bountiful harvest:
Support and Trellising
Trailing blackberries, whether thorny or thornless, benefit from trellising or support. Install a trellis system or use wires between posts to keep the canes upright and off the ground. This improves air circulation, reduces disease risk, and makes harvesting easier.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial for blackberry plants to encourage healthy growth and maximize fruit production. Remove dead canes and selectively prune lateral branches to maintain an open canopy. Pruning should be done during the dormant season.
Watering
Blackberry plants need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells and fruit development. Provide regular, deep watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pest and Disease Management
Regularly inspect your blackberry plants for signs of pests like aphids and Japanese beetles. Implement organic pest control methods as needed. Be
vigilant for diseases like rust and remove affected canes promptly.
Harvesting
Harvest ripe blackberries gently by using your fingers to pluck the berries from the plant. Blackberries are best enjoyed immediately after picking for the freshest flavor.
Conclusion
Growing blackberries in your garden is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to enjoy the taste of summer right at your doorstep. Whether you prefer the ease of thornless varieties, the flavor of thorny varieties, or the indulgence of trailing blackberries, there’s a blackberry variety suited to your garden and taste preferences.
By carefully considering your blackberry plant selection, providing proper support and care, and following best practices for cultivation, you’ll be well on your way to savoring the delicious fruits of your labor. So, why wait? Plant your blackberry patch today and look forward to the joy of plucking ripe, juicy blackberries from your garden for years to come.
