How to Prune Boysenberries
Boysenberries are an interesting plant. A cross between loganberries, blackberries and raspberries, the boysenberry was first introduced by Mr. Knott on his berry farm in California. If you are looking for the proper way to care for your own boysenberry bushes, follow these steps. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Do not prune a boysenberry bush for the first year after it is planted. Let it produce as much growth as possible. Prepare to prune it the next year.
-
2
Prune the tips off of all new canes during the summer months. Keep them at about 3 feet long for convenience. Fruit grows on new canes, so keep them within reach for easier harvesting.
-
-
3
Heavily prune the boysenberry plants right after harvest. Remove all dead and broken limbs. Cut off any limbs hanging down, and cut back all older canes that are not removed.
-
4
Pay attention to the 1- and 2-year old canes. Each year after harvest, the older canes are removed so new growth can form on the new canes. Know which canes are which for easier pruning.
-
5
Trellis your boysenberry bush after pruning. Fan the canes out to make room. In the late fall, trim off the bottom canes below the trellis wire and top off the canes above the trellis wire. Canes that are not pruned will continue to grow.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
After harvesting your crop of boysenberries, it is best to remove all wood over 2 years old. This enables new wood to grow and prevents certain types of disease.
Don't be too concerned if your boysenberry plant doesn't produce fruit for up to 5 years. This is perfectly normal. If the plant produces sooner, you have a reason to celebrate.
