Optimal Location & Soil: Plant in a sunny spot (6-8 hours of sunlight daily) with well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Test soil pH and amend with compost or sulfur if needed.
Planting Time & Spacing Plant bare-root canes in early spring or fall. Space plants 2–3 feet apart in rows 6–8 feet apart to ensure airflow and reduce disease risk.
Watering Routine Provide 1–2 inches of water weekly, increasing during fruiting. Use drip irrigation to keep foliage dry and prevent fungal issues.
Fertilization Strategy Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring. Avoid high nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth over fruiting. Top-dress with compost annually.
Support Structures Install a T-shaped trellis or stake system to support canes, improve sunlight exposure, and ease harvesting.
Pruning Techniques Summer-bearing varieties: Remove fruited (brown) canes after harvest, leaving new green canes for next year. Everbearing varieties: Cut all canes to the ground in late winter for a single fall crop, or prune selectively for two harvests.
Pest & Disease Management Combat aphids with neem oil, Japanese beetles with hand-picking, and fungal diseases (e.g., powdery mildew) by ensuring airflow and applying copper fungicide if needed.
Mulching Benefits Apply 2–3 inches of straw or wood chips to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Refresh mulch annually.
Harvesting Tips Pick berries when fully colored and easily detach (every 2–3 days in peak season). Handle gently to avoid bruising and refrigerate immediately.
Winter Preparation 1. After the first frost, cut back old canes and mulch heavily with straw or leaves to protect roots. In snowy regions, avoid heavy mulch to prevent rodent damage.