If the soil cone is made of loose soil, plant the crown slightly higher (1/2" to 3/4") to allow for settling after planting.
To plant, spread the roots over the soil cone, adjusting as necessary so the crown sits at the natural soil level. Set grafted plants so the graft union (a swollen area near the base of the trunk or main stem) sits a few inches above soil grade. The top is called the scion, and the bottom is called the rootstock. Most fruit trees and roses are grafted, meaning that each plant consists of two sections. Bone meal provides essential minerals that promote sturdy root systems and stimulate plant growth. Trees and shrubs with mycorrhizal-enhanced root systems adapt better and are more tolerant of stressful environments. Mycorrhizal fungi form associations with plant roots and help them extract and absorb minerals and water from the soil. We do recommend adding mycorrhizal fungi and bone meal to the backfill. This encourages roots to spread out into the native soil, rather than staying within the confines of the planting hole. Although it was once common to modify the backfill soil with amendments - such as compost, peat moss, aged manure and other ingredients - it is now considered best practice to leave the backfill unaltered or to add minimal amendments. The thinking on backfill has changed in recent years. Adjust the height of the cone so that the crown (where the trunk meets the roots) will sit at or slightly above soil level with the roots spreading downward. The hole should be deep enough to accommodate the roots without crowding or bending. If possible, leave a cone of undisturbed soil in the center of the hole. Digging the Planting Holeĭig a hole that is twice the diameter of the root spread. Keep the roots moist at all times before and during planting. Remove the packing material from the roots, and then soak the roots in a bucket of tepid water for about 30 to 60 minutes, but not longer than two hours. Keep the roots moist and do not allow the plants to freeze. If you need to delay planting for a few days, leave plants in their packaging and put them in a cool, shady place. For best results, plant within a day or two. If it feels dry, sprinkle it with water to moisten it, but don't completely saturate it. Open the package and check to make sure the packing material (shredded paper, sawdust or peat moss) around the roots is moist. Note that bareroot plants are slow to "wake up." Expect to wait four to six weeks after planting until you see signs of growth. Proper planting is critical to their survival and long-term success.
Is your plant in a container or balled-and-burlapped? If so, read How to Plant a Tree or Shrub.īareroot plants are sold in spring and must be planted as soon as possible after purchase. You may find a larger selection, especially via mail order.Bareroot plants are usually less expensive.There are several benefits of purchasing bareroot vs. Growers dig the plants while they're dormant, wash the soil from the roots, and surround the roots in moist packing material prior to shipping. Many deciduous trees, shrubs and roses are available as bareroot plants. 38 plants/100' row, or 2,047 plants/acre at 32" spacing, rows 8' apart.A set of bareroot shrubs, as they arrive in a shipment. Raspberries for fresh eating are almost always harvested by hand, as they do not ripen uniformly enough to machine harvest.
Everbearing varieties will bear a small crop during their 1st year. HARVEST: Beginning the 2nd year for Summer-Fruiting varieties. Our Raspberry Planting Guide, included with each order, explains pruning and trellising, and contains information on specific diseases. Mulch to keep the soil evenly moist and to prevent weeds. Proper soil moisture is important during the establishment-year and drip irrigation is the best method. Irrigate well after transplanting and maintain good moisture levels until plants are well-established or for 4-6 weeks after transplanting. For plug plants, transplant plugs deeply enough to cover plug soil with 1/2-1" garden soil. For bare-root plants, spread the roots laterally from the stem and cover roots with 1/2-1" soil. Beds should be 3-4' wide, with paths between the beds a minimum of 8' wide. PLANTING: Adequate spacing is important for best yields. Raspberries prefer soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Raised beds are an option if your site is poorly drained.
CULTURE: Raspberries perform best in full sun, with good air movement and fertile, very well-drained soil.