Blackberries absolutely love soaking up the sun and warmth. If you’ve ever gone foraging, you’ve probably spotted wild varieties thriving on sunny hillsides or tucked along the edges of woods and meadows. But when it comes to the cultivated varieties in your backyard, picking the right spot is key to a huge harvest. Here’s how to find the perfect home for your berries.
Sunny and Sheltered
For the best results, you’ll want to plant your blackberries in a full-sun spot that’s protected from harsh winds. They’re happiest in soil that is loose, well-draining, and packed with nutrients. Since many varieties love to send out long, sprawling canes, you’ll definitely want to set up a trellis. Not only does this keep your garden tidy, but it also boosts your yield by making sure every part of the plant gets plenty of sunlight. You can easily DIY a climbing support yourself! All you really need are:
- A few sturdy wooden stakes for the corners,
- Medium-gauge tension wire,
- Wire cutters, and
- A mallet or sledgehammer.
The “House Wall” Advantage
If you really want to level up your berry game, try planting your blackberries (and their trellis) against a south-facing house wall. The wall acts as a natural shield against wind and nasty weather. Even better, the siding or brick soaks up the sun’s heat during the day and radiates it back to the plants. This extra warmth can significantly jumpstart your harvest and result in much sweeter fruit!
