I live in central Oklahoma and need info for planting blackberries this fall?

Question

I have thornless blackberries "Triple Crown & Chester" do i need to do anything to the soil? And what kind of mulch is best for them?

Answer 1

If you have a high clay content like I do in southern Oklahoma, I would till in some sandy loam and a little peat moss to help break down the clay.

Answer 2

Oh, what a treat! Thornless blackberries!

You would do well to plant them along a wall, if you can, and space them out a bit; as much as 6 feet apart is not excessive, they WILL spread! Find a sunny place, or only partially shaded (although in Oklahoma, a bit of shade would probably be best - I speak from English experience!)

It really is best to plant your little guys in late winter or early spring, but if you've already got your little guys, you could try to plant them now. Some people recommend planting in autumn. Do not plant them too deeply, either - the soil should only just cover the roots. Spread the roots out, if you can, while planting.

OK - soil: add plenty of humus, and mulch with manure, but be sure that your soil is well-drained.

Your plants will grow canes the first season, bear fruit the next, and die down the third, but they will reproduce themselves - that is why you should give them plenty of room!

Hope this helps ;-)

Answer 3

Here is what works in Central California, USDA zone 9. We get some frost, temperatures rarely much below 30 degrees.

Answer 4

The answers above are good. You will need to water them frequently.