UC Links
- How to grow and pest management: Blackberries & Raspberries, Strawberries.
The Basics
When to plant
- Blackberries and Raspberries: mid-January to March
- Strawberries: late August (summer plantings) or late October (winter plantings)
Harvest window
May to September, depending on the variety
Fertilization
Nitrogen in spring, additional applications as needed.
Annual care overview
- Caneberries (blackberries, raspberries) need annual pruning to maintain the right balance of new and previous season growth.
- Strawberry runners should be pruned off to foster the health of the main plant. As yields and vigor decrease, consider replacing with fresh soil and/or new plants.
More links
- Strawberry propagation: Strawberry runners [1:32]
- Blueberries
- Blackberries and Raspberries
Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*
Blackberries: Boysen, Logan (Thornless Logan), Marion, Olallie, Thornfree, and Thornfree Evergreen
Red Raspberries: Autumn Bliss, Canby, Fairview, Heritage, Meeker, Newburgh, September, Southland, and Willamette
Black Raspberries: Cumberland and Munger
Strawberries: Aptos, Chandler, Fern, Hecker, Pajaro, Quinalt, Seascape, and Sequoia
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.