Blackberry bushes are a wonderful addition to any garden or landscape. They not only provide delicious fruit, but they also have beautiful foliage and can be trained to grow on trellises or fences. One common question that many gardeners have is how quickly blackberry bushes grow.
The growth rate of blackberry bushes can vary depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. Generally, it takes about three years for a blackberry bush to reach full production, meaning you can expect a significant harvest of berries. However, there are some blackberry varieties known as primocanes or everbearing blackberries that can produce fruit on first- and second-year canes.
What makes primocane blackberries unique is that they can have a second harvest late in the season. This is different from traditional blackberry varieties, which only produce fruit on canes that are at least a year old. With primocanes, you can enjoy a smaller harvest in the first year, and a larger harvest in the second year. This can be a great advantage for those who are eager to start enjoying fresh blackberries sooner.
In terms of growth rate, blackberry bushes can be quite vigorous once established. When you first plant a blackberry bush, it may take some time for it to establish its root system and start growing vigorously. However, once it takes hold, you can expect the canes to grow rapidly.
I remember planting my first blackberry bush a few years ago. It was a primocane variety, so I was excited about the possibility of having some berries in the first year. I carefully prepared the soil, making sure it was well-draining and rich in organic matter. I dug a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots and gently spread them out before backfilling with soil.
During the first year, the canes of my blackberry bush grew about 3-4 feet in height. Although the growth wasn’t as rapid as I had expected, I was still pleased to see new shoots emerging from the base of the plant. In the second year, the growth was much more robust, with the canes reaching heights of 6-8 feet. I was amazed at how quickly the plant had established itself and started to produce fruit.
To help facilitate the growth of blackberry bushes, it is important to provide them with proper care. This includes regular watering, especially during dry periods, and fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Pruning is also crucial for maintaining healthy and productive plants. In late winter or early spring, remove any dead or damaged canes, as well as any weak or overcrowded ones. This will promote air circulation and allow the remaining canes to thrive.
Blackberry bushes can take about three years to reach full production, but with primocane varieties, you can have fruit as early as the first year. The growth rate of blackberry bushes can be quite rapid once established, with canes reaching heights of 6-8 feet in the second year. By providing proper care, including watering, fertilizing, and pruning, you can ensure healthy and productive blackberry plants in your garden or landscape.
