Blackberries

Brent Sellers, Pratap Devkota, and Jason Ferrell

Muhammad A. Shahid andAli Sarkhosh

This article aims to provide a general overview of growth habits, fruiting patterns, and pruning requirements/timing for county and state Extension faculty, growers, homeowners, and students interested in growing floricane blackberries in Florida. Written by Muhammad A. Shahid and Ali Sarkhosh, and published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department, March 2023.

Nurjahan Sriti, Elena Máximo-Salgado, Zhanao Deng, Jeffrey G. Williamson, andGuodong Liu

Blackberry cultivation offers significant opportunities for fruit producers in subtropical regions. Effective fertilizer management is essential for maximizing production. However, determining the optimal fertilizer application can be challenging as a result of variations in soil types and climate. To achieve the best results, it is important to follow the 5Rs of nutrient stewardship. (There are usually 4 Rs outside the unique environmental conditions of Florida.) These principles focus on applying the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, in the right place, and with the right irrigation. This guide provides Florida blackberry growers with practical recommendations for efficient fertigation practices to boost blackberry yields and improve nutrient use efficiency. It is intended for commercial growers, agricultural consultants, farm managers, Extension agents, Extension specialists, and others interested in blackberry production and sustainable farming.

Shinsuke Agehara, Syuan-You Lin, and Zhanao Deng

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. Published by Plant Systems

Muhammad A. Shahid, Shahid Iqbal, and Ali Sarkhosh

Blackberry (Rubus spp.) is a deciduous fruit crop. The fruit are usually small, round, and dark purple to black. Blackberry fruit is comprised of multiple drupelets that cluster together to form a berry, which has a glossy appearance when matured. Blackberries have a complex flavor profile that blends sweetness and acidity, and taste may vary depending on the variety and maturity stage. They are rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Blackberries are best grown in sub-tropical to temperate climates. Blackberry is a new emerging fruit crop in Florida, where they are harvested in May-June. There are several varieties, some of which are native to Florida. This publication aims to provide a general overview of the importance of trellis, different types of trellis, and their installation in blackberry production for county and state Extension faculty, growers, homeowners, and students interested in growing blackberries in Florida.