New Plot

[Kayt]

I'm just taking on a new plot which is incredibly overgrown but amongst all the rubbish at the bottom half are some raspberry bushes, still full of fruit, and a blackberry bush that thinks it owns the plot!! Having said that, the blackberries are really big and so sweet. I plan to clear the first half of the plot to get started for veg but would like some advice as to the best way to deal with the raspberry and blackberries - both I'd like to keep. There is also an Elderberry growing behing the blackberries.

[mandyballantyne]

Hi Kayt,

Welcome to the vine and congratulations on your new plot.

I have not grown fruit before (no space) so can't help there but I am sure someone will be along soon to help.

Good luck and keep us posted to how you get on, Mandy

[Hazel at the Hill]

Not sure on your fruit question, KT, but wanted to say welcome to the Vine! Congrats on the new plot too - mmmmmmm just love rasps!

[Polly Fouracre]

I'm not sure whether or not to offer this piece of advise as I'm sure people think I'm mad already.Concerning the Elder Tree,always ask it's permission before doing anything with it,whether pruning,harvesting,whatever.
As for the blackberry,you can order it as you like!Cut off all this years fruiting shoots,also any that are spindly and you tie in the remainder to wires stretched across sturdy posts.
Raspberries ,similarly,cut out this years fruited canes and any small,spindly ones also any that are out of line and tie the others into wires stretched 2ft. and 4ft.above ground.
This keeps them in order.Rasps. like a leaf mould mulch.
Good luck with your plot,hope it gives you many happy hours!

[Kayt]

Thanks for the welcome and advice. Without meaning to offend anyone Polly I'm begining to think being a little mad goes with the territory of allotments I've spoken to a couple of my 'neighbours' and they seem a little quirky, like me!! (My kids -all adults now - think I'm barking!)
Thanks again

[leona]

im pretty sure you dont want to cut the rasps til beginning of next year tho if they are autumn fruiting like mine are... dont hold me to it though! its what iv always done and not had a problem though