Blackberry and Raspberry Seasonal Checklist

October 13, 2021

Gina Fernandez, Small Fruit Specialist, North Carolina State University

Fall 2021

Primocanes continue to grow but growth rate is slower
Flower buds start to form in leaf axils on summer-fruiting types
Carbohydrates and nutrients in canes begin to move into the roots
Primocane fruiting types begin to flower in late summer/early fall and fruit matures until frost in fall
Primocane leaves senesce late fall

Spent floricanes should be removed as soon as possible after harvest is complete
Optimal time to prune is after the coldest part of the season is over. However pruning can start in late fall if plantings are large (late winter for smaller plantings)
Start trellis repairs after plants have defoliated
Remove covers on three-season tunnels

Many summer weed problems can be best managed in the fall and winter using preemergent herbicides. Determine what weeds have been or could be a problem in your area. Check with your states agricultural chemical manual and local extension agent for the best-labeled chemicals to control these weeds

Continue scouting for insects and diseases
Remove damaged canes as soon as possible to lessen the impact of the pest
Check the Southern Regional Bramble Integrated Management Guide for recommendations

Growers in warmer areas (e.g. extreme southeastern NC) can plant into early December
Preparations for winter planting should have already been made. If you have questions about winter planting please contact your local county extension agent
In cooler areas, prepare list of cultivars for next spring’s new plantings. Find a commercial small fruit nursery list

Take soil tests to determine fertility needs for spring plantings
Non-nitrogenous fertilizers are best applied in the fall to established plantings
If soil is bare, plant an overwintering cover crop (e.g. rye) to build organic matter and slow soil erosion

Order containers for next season
Make contacts for selling fruit next season
In states near the Atlantic coast (not just the southern states), prepare for hurricanes and assess damage afterward. Some tips can be found at https://teamrubus.blogspot.com/search?q=Hurricane.
If you are harvesting this fall, be sure you have COVID-19 plans for your farm, addressing issues such as worker health, social distancing, masks, customer communication, etc. Find out and follow any specific requirements for your state or locality. NARBA has compiled a list of resources on our website at www.raspberryblackberry.com/covid-19-resources/. There is also a link at the home page

Blackberries and raspberries are part or all of these programs.

Southeast Regional Conference and Tradeshow
- January 6-9, 2022, at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center, Savannah, GA
2022 North American Raspberry and Blackberry Conference
- Feb 21-24, 2022, Gaithersburg, Maryland

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Posted in: Fall 2021