Primocanes do indeed turn into floricanes. This is a natural progression in the growth cycle of blackberries and raspberries. Let me explain the process in more detail.
In the first year of growth, blackberry and raspberry plants produce green primocanes. These canes are young and vigorous, growing rapidly and reaching heights of several feet. During this time, the focus of the plant is on vegetative growth, establishing a strong root system, and developing a robust framework of canes.
Primocanes often produce lateral branches or side shoots, which can contribute to the overall bushy appearance of the plant. These branches also remain vegetative and do not produce fruit in the first year. Instead, they continue to elongate and add to the overall growth of the plant.
As the growing season comes to an end and winter approaches, the canes start to undergo changes. The once green and flexible primocanes begin to harden and turn brown. This hardening process is important for their ability to withstand the harsh winter conditions.
Once winter sets in, the canes are now referred to as floricanes. These are the second-year canes that have gone through the winter dormancy period and are ready to bear fruit in the coming season. Floricanes are characterized by their hardened, woody structure and are easily distinguishable from the new primocanes that emerge in the spring.
When spring arrives, the floricanes start to produce flowers and eventually develop fruit. The flowers appear on the lateral branches or on the main cane itself, depending on the specific variety of blackberry or raspberry. The fruiting period for floricanes typically occurs in the late spring to early summer, allowing for a bountiful harvest of delicious berries.
It’s worth noting that after the floricanes have finished fruiting, they will eventually die off and should be pruned out to make way for new primocanes. This pruning helps maintain the health and vigor of the plant, as well as encourages the growth of new canes for future fruit production.
The growth cycle of blackberries and raspberries involves the transformation of green, vegetative primocanes into hardened, fruit-bearing floricanes in their second year. This natural progression ensures that the plants have a strong foundation before transitioning into the fruiting stage.
