Pruning raspberries may seem challenging at first, but it’s a crucial process that enhances plant health, encourages new growth, and boosts fruit production. By understanding the types of raspberry plants, their growth cycles, and proper pruning techniques, you can enjoy abundant harvests year after year.
Types of Raspberries: Understanding Growth Cycles
Raspberries come in two main types: fall-bearing and summer-bearing. Each requires a different pruning method:
- Fall-bearing raspberries (also known as everbearing):
These plants produce fruit on both first-year canes (primocanes) and second-year canes (floricanes). They typically yield a fall harvest and may also fruit the following summer. - Summer-bearing raspberries:
These plants produce fruit only on floricanes, bearing fruit once in the summer. Primocanes grow in the first year and mature into fruiting floricanes in the second year.
Knowing the type of raspberries you are growing is critical for effective pruning.
When to Prune
The ideal time to prune raspberries is during their dormant phase, typically between November and March. Late winter (February or March) is often preferred, as it allows the plant’s root system to store more energy, leading to healthier growth.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp pruning shears or loppers
- Gardening gloves (to protect against thorns)
- Safety goggles
Pruning Techniques
Pruning Fall-bearing Raspberries
- One Harvest Method (Fall Only):
- In early spring, cut all canes to ground level. This method skips the summer harvest but results in a more concentrated and higher-quality fall crop.
- Two Harvests Method:
- Thin primocanes, leaving four to five per foot of row. Remove weaker or overcrowded canes at ground level.
- After the summer harvest, cut all floricanes to the ground to make room for new growth.
- Remove Non-fruiting Suckers:
- These small, thin canes don’t produce fruit and should be cut at ground level to prevent resource competition.
- Trim Primocanes:
- If necessary, cut 6–12 inches from the tops of tall primocanes to encourage lateral growth and easier harvesting. Avoid removing more than 25% of any cane.
Pruning Summer-bearing Raspberries
- Remove Old Floricanes:
- After fruiting, cut dead floricanes to the ground, as they won’t produce fruit again.
- Thin Primocanes:
- Allow the strongest primocanes to grow into floricanes for next year’s harvest. Keep 4–5 canes per foot of row and ensure spacing of 9 inches between canes.
- Pinch Tall Canes:
- In spring, trim 3–4 inches from the tips of tall canes to stimulate lateral growth and improve berry size.
Trellising for Better Growth
Trellising supports raspberry canes, improves sunlight exposure, and makes harvesting easier.
- Set Up a Trellis:
Use a “T”-shaped trellis with parallel wires. Space rows 2 feet apart, and tie canes to alternating sides of the wire for a “V” shape. - Tie the Canes:
Secure canes loosely with twine or twist ties, ensuring they’re stable but not restricted.
Expert Tips for Success
- Prune all canes at once for a single fall harvest, or manage first- and second-year canes separately for continuous summer and fall harvests.
- Remove diseased or dead canes promptly to prevent the spread of disease.