If you’ve been following my gardening work for a while now, you’ll know that I’m a huge fan and advocate of growing berry bushes. 

However, I realized I haven’t talked much about Blackberries for some reason despite the fact that they’ve been a summer staple in my “garden” for a very long time

So, in today’s article, we’ll be learning all there is to know about blackberries and determining the easiest possible way to grow them in containers. Let’s dive right into it! 

Well, first and foremost, the most important reason why most gardeners consider growing anything in containers is because it allows for more flexibility and freedom.

Since I have limited space at home, growing plants in containers and pots is definitly a MUST!

Also, If you grow your blackberries in pots rather than in the garden, it allows you to easily move them to areas with optimal sunlight or more favorable temperatures for growth. 

And, by growing blackberries in containers, you also get much more control over certain variables like soil quality, drainage, and moisture levels, allowing you to optimize all that you want for healthy growth. 

Blackberry cutting
Blackberry cutting

When choosing the ideal blackberry variety, you need to take into consideration factors like:

  • Climate;
  • Growing time;
  • Flavor. 

Certain blackberry varieties like Doyle and Illini Hardy thrive in low-temperature conditions whereas others such as Cherokee and Boysen are more heat-loving. 

When it comes to growing time, blackberry varieties such as Loch Ness will call for you to have a lot more patience compared to growing Black Satin which can be fully matured in less than 60-70 days.

These different varieties offer slightly different flavor profiles as well; some can be incredibly sweet whereas others are a lot more tart and sour. 

When setting up the container in which you’ll be growing your blackberries, the most important thing to keep in mind is to use well-drained soil that ideally has a neutral pH and isn’t overly acidic or alkaline

Loosen your soil up with a small fork before planting and don’t forget to address any nutrient deficiencies using nutrient-dense organic matter like compost or store-bought fertilizers.

Pick a fertilizer blend that has a slightly higher nitrogen concentration as blackberries require plenty of nitrogen to grow their best.  

In the growing season, your potted blackberries will require lots of water and even more when they’re fruiting. It’s important that you keep them nice and moist but not waterlogged or else they can develop root rot like issues fairly quick. 

If you notice signs of weakness, stunted growth, leaf yellowing, or poor fruiting, there’s a high chance your blackberry plant is under stress either due to nutrient deficiencies or frequent temperature fluctuations.

Try your best to provide it with full sun for a good 6-8 hours every day and address any nutrient deficiencies before they get worse. 

Thronless blackberries fruiting in a season

Different blackberry varieties will grow at different times, which means harvesting times can also vary between different varieties. To find out if your berries are ready to harvest, look at them and feel them.

What I mean is, when the berries have developed a deep, shiny color and feel plump yet firm to the touch, they’re ready to be picked.

Don’t wait any longer or else the flavor profile can change and the berries may turn too soft.

Gently pick them off and collect them in a bucket to either consume right away or store them for use later on. Don’t forget to wash them though! 

Growing blackberries can be a fun activity to enjoy on your own, or, if you have kids, involve them in the process so they can learn a thing or two along the way. My mom had me help her pick berries from her backyard and that sparked my passion for gardening, so it’s safe to say it can have a lasting impact! 

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