Rasberry & Blackberry problems

[Busy Lizzy]

Hi Everyone

Sorry I am still trying to get to grips with things... SO much to learn. I bought some lovely blackberry and rasberry plants but as soon as some berries come on them some darn pest eats them! What is this and how do I get rid of it!

Also done strawberries this year is it best to leave them to crawl along the floor or better to train them up some canes? Let me know please.

On an up side a couple of weeks ago planted some radishes from Kings and they are going great guns cant wait to get them up to see how big they are but think I have to wait a bit more!

Loving GYO, thanks for another lovely magazine!

[leona]

what is eating your blackberrys and rasps? without knowing its a bit difficult to say what to do but assuming its birds (which is likely is) you would have to net them. as with strawbs. if they are fruiting, put some straw underneath to keep the strawbs off the soil. you cant train them up canes, just leave them but if you get runners (looks the same as a leaf stem without the leaf on it) you can pin them into another pot of compost and get a new plant.

[Busy Lizzy]

Thanks Leona will get some netting from my little supplier of all that is good Kings... Did not even think about the peski birds I already feed them the little bliters!!! Thanks!

[nick the grief]

Before you rush off & buy netting, try going to the local charity shop for some net curtains - does the same job for a fraction of the price & you can wash thena t the end of the year & put them away readt for next year. Good for shading greenhouses too as the white will reflect some of the heat & light better than the dark green stuff.

[Shortie]

Before you rush off & buy netting, try going to the local charity shop for some net curtains

Like your style ntg. This way we will also be reusing/recycling and giving money to a good cause