Autumn raspberry care: Top tips for a bountiful harvest

As autumn arrives, many people begin thinking about readying their garden for the winter. One of the key tasks is appropriately pruning raspberries. Although raspberries are demanding shrubs, a few simple actions can greatly enhance their condition.

The first step involves clearing the soil around the plants. Raspberries do not cope well with competition from weeds, which can deprive them of valuable nutrients and water. Therefore, ensure thorough weeding and levelling of the ground.

The next consideration is selecting the right tools. Sharp secateurs are best for pruning raspberries, enabling precise cuts without crushing the stems. The tools should be clean and well-sharpened.

Once the soil and tools are properly prepared, it's time for the pruning itself. It's essential to know that the technique varies depending on the raspberry variety. For varieties that bear fruit in the autumn, the best time for pruning is winter. It's advisable to remove all the stems just above the ground. Such pruned shrubs will produce many new stems in the next season.

Besides the timing and technique of pruning, several other factors influence the success of growing autumn raspberries. One of them is mulching, which not only stabilises soil moisture but also protects the roots from frost. This is often achieved using straw, bark, or agrotextiles. Mulch also helps to limit weed growth, which can rob the plants of water and nutrients.

Another important aspect is regularly checking the condition of the plants. Withered or diseased stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Regular fertilising and watering, particularly during dry spells, will further strengthen the shrubs before winter. By following these simple practices, raspberries will remain healthy and yield abundantly in the coming season.