Blackberry cane - what to expect in the first year?

[Gemmalaveen]

I am growing blackberries for the first time this year and would like to get an idea of how much growth to expect in the first year. I am trying to decide whether I can use the space for something else, whilst the blackberry is merely a cane.

I have only ever seen a blackberry in the wild, so have no idea how many canes will come up in the first year... my guess is not many. I plan to train the canes to the left this year,and the right next year etc.

I am thinking of growing some peas alongside the blackberry cane.

[FB.]

Most plants are slow for their first year or two (especially if potted and the roots remain coiled-up in the pot compost) - and I understand that much of the soil in Hampshire is fairly poor, which may slow its growth even more unless well-fed.
I would go ahead and grow something else alongside.

[sugar]

You will probably get one new shoot getting 3-6 ft long. As soon as the new growth is more than 3 ft long, it is best to cut the old cane back.
Next year, you will get more canes, that will also grow a bit longer (depending on the variety). And the first fruit on the cane you will have grown this year...

[Gemmalaveen]

Thanks Sugar - very helpful indeed!