Arapaho blackberries do spread. These thornless blackberry plants have a growth rate of up to 1-3 feet per year, which means they can quickly and efficiently fill in the area they are planted in. This spreading characteristic can be advantageous for gardeners and berry enthusiasts as it results in more blackberry plants and, ultimately, more berries to enjoy.
One of the ways Arapaho blackberries spread is through the production of suckers. Suckers are shoots that emerge from the base of the blackberry plants and can grow into new plants if left undisturbed. These suckers can extend the blackberry patch and create a denser and more abundant berry harvest. It is important to note that while the suckers can be beneficial in terms of berry production, they can also lead to overcrowding if not managed properly.
To effectively control the spread of Arapaho blackberries, it is recommended to regularly monitor and remove any unwanted suckers that may emerge outside of the desired growing area. This can be done by carefully digging up the sucker and transplanting it to a different location or by simply pruning it back to prevent further growth. By actively managing the suckers, you can ensure that the blackberry patch remains well-spaced and avoid overcrowding.
In addition to suckers, Arapaho blackberries can also spread through their root system. Blackberry plants have a rhizomatous root system, which means they produce underground stems called rhizomes that can give rise to new shoots and plants. These rhizomes can extend horizontally underground, allowing the blackberry plants to spread and colonize new areas over time.
To control the spread of Arapaho blackberries through their root system, it is important to consider the planting location. If you want to contain the blackberry patch to a specific area, you can install a root barrier or create a physical barrier, such as a raised bed or a buried barrier made of plastic or metal. These barriers can help prevent the rhizomes from spreading beyond the designated area and keep the blackberries in check.
While Arapaho blackberries do spread, their spreading characteristic can be advantageous for gardeners who want to establish a productive and abundant blackberry patch. By managing the suckers and considering the planting location, you can ensure that the blackberry plants are well-spaced and prevent them from becoming overly invasive. The reward for your efforts will be a bountiful harvest of delicious thornless blackberries to enjoy.
