Bare root raspberries are plants shipped while they are fully dormant, typically between late autumn and early spring, meaning they have no soil surrounding their root systems. Planting raspberries while they are in this resting phase is effective because they experience significantly less transplant shock compared to actively growing plants. This method offers a cost-effective way to establish a new raspberry patch, as the plants are generally cheaper and sold in bundles ideal for creating a row. The success of the patch relies on following proper steps to ensure the root system establishes vigorously before the plant begins its new season of growth.
Preparing the Roots and Site
Proper preparation of both the plant and the planting location is the initial step toward a successful raspberry harvest. If the bare root plants cannot be planted immediately upon arrival, keep them cool and moist by wrapping the roots in damp material and storing them between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The planting site requires full sun exposure, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Raspberries are susceptible to root rot, so the soil must have excellent drainage.
To ensure adequate drainage, especially in heavy clay soils, planting in raised beds or mounded rows is recommended. The plants prefer a slightly acidic soil pH, ideally between 5.5 and 6.5. A soil test can determine if amendments, such as lime or sulfur, are necessary, which should be incorporated the season before planting. Avoid planting raspberries in soil that has recently grown other brambles, potatoes, tomatoes, or peppers, as these can harbor soil pathogens.
Before planting, the bare roots need hydration to prevent drying out. Soak the root system in a bucket of water for thirty minutes up to two hours. Do not exceed two hours, as prolonged soaking can damage the fine root hairs. Inspect the roots during this time and trim any that appear broken or damaged with clean pruning shears.
Step-by-Step Planting Technique
Once the site and roots are prepared, planting needs precise attention to depth and root placement. Dig a hole wide enough to comfortably accommodate the spread of the root system and deep enough to ensure the root crown is positioned correctly. For planting in a row, a trench approximately 15 inches deep and 36 inches wide is often recommended.
The depth of planting is critical, as raspberries are shallow-rooted plants. Position the plant so that the root crown, the point where the cane meets the root system, sits level with or only slightly below the surrounding soil line. The topmost root should be covered by no more than one or two inches of soil. Planting too deeply can inhibit the emergence of new canes necessary for future harvests.
As you hold the plant in place, gently fan out the roots in the planting hole to encourage outward growth. Backfill the hole carefully with the prepared soil, ensuring the roots are in complete contact with the surrounding earth. Firm the soil gently by hand to eliminate any air pockets that could dry out the roots.
Essential Care After Planting
Immediate care after planting focuses on encouraging the root system to establish quickly rather than forcing top growth. The first action is to water the newly planted cane thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. This initial watering helps eliminate any remaining air gaps and provides the necessary moisture for the roots to begin absorbing nutrients.
Pruning the existing cane immediately after planting is necessary. Cut the cane back hard, leaving only a short stub of about two inches above the ground. This practice prevents the plant from expending energy on producing a sparse crop on the old cane during the first season. Pruning forces the plant’s energy reserves into the root system, stimulating the growth of vigorous new shoots from below the ground, which will form the productive canes of the future.
Finally, apply a two to three-inch layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or straw, around the base of the plant. Mulch helps to suppress weeds that compete with the shallow raspberry roots for water and nutrients. It also conserves soil moisture and helps regulate the soil temperature while the root system is establishing itself in the first year.