Tayberry stem or sucker ??

[newbieveggie]

Hi there.
I have two tayberry bushes, both about three years old but it is only this year I have planted into a proper bed. Both of them have grown two huge thick stems that are about 4ft long. Should I chop these off or is it the fruiting stems for next year ? Thanks

[rustylady]

NOOOOOOOOOOO, don't chop them off. They are next year's fruiting shoots. Tie them in to a support so they don't break.

[newbieveggie]

Phew thanks for that rusty, will tie them in pronto

[Flummery]

After they have fruited this year, cut the stems that bore the fruit right down to the ground. Then tie in these new ones. At this time of year they can be a damned nuisance. Mine are sprawled all over me spud patch!

[newbieveggie]

I can't believe how long/fast they have grown. At this rate I will be picking fruit 8ft away from the plant !! Sooooo spiny as well..ouch