Not only do we love blueberries, but we can easily grow blackberries in Houston as well! Now is a great time to get them in the ground because even the though the weather is beginning to cool (finally!), the soil is still warm enough to nurture new berry bush roots. Keep in mind that the canes or bushes will be dormant right now and you will likely not get a harvest until April or May. But that’s ok because you’ll get to see them grow and put on new leaves and THEN you’ll be able to enjoy a sweet and juicy harvest come early summer. Read on for tips about blackberries!
Let’s grow blackberries!
Blackberries are considerably less fussy than blueberries, which makes them a great choice for Houston gardens. They like full sun, well-drained soil, and regular moisture, but they don't require the extremely acidic soil that blueberries do.
Most blackberry varieties are also self-fertile, so unlike blueberries, you generally don't need multiple varieties just to get fruit. Give them plenty of room to grow, though, because they can get large and their canes can become quite unruly without some support and pruning. We planted Ouachita Thornless Blackberries for a client this year and they are growing strong!
Keeping your berry bushes happy
Once your berries are planted, the biggest thing is keeping them consistently watered, especially while they're getting established and during Houston's hot summers.
A good layer of mulch will help tremendously. It keeps the soil cooler, slows evaporation, and helps keep weeds from competing with the plants. Just keep mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant rather than piling it directly against the stems.
Fertilize & Prune
Blueberries should be fertilized with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants, and it's important not to overdo it. Follow the fertilizer label and, when possible, let a soil test guide your applications.
Blackberries need regular pruning, too. They produce fruit on canes from the previous year's growth, so after a cane has finished producing, it should eventually be removed to make room for new growth. Depending on the variety, you'll want to train the new canes onto a trellis or other support.
And don't forget the birds! Once your berries start ripening, you'll probably discover that you're not the only one who thinks they're delicious. Bird netting can be helpful if your feathered neighbors start getting more berries than you do.
A little work, a lot of berries
Growing berries in Houston takes a little more planning than simply planting a bush and waiting for fruit. But once you get the variety, soil, drainage, and watering right, they're surprisingly rewarding.
There's something pretty special about walking into your garden in the middle of summer and picking a handful of berries for breakfast, especially when they came from plants you put in the ground yourself!
If you've got a sunny spot in your garden, consider giving berries a try this fall. With the right conditions, your little berry patch can keep you well supplied for years to come, with maybe a few left for the birds.