Raspberries need plenty of sunshine to reach their full potential. If you want a bumper crop of big, juicy berries that taste like summer, you’ve got to pick a sunny spot in your garden. There’s nothing quite like picking a handful of sun-warmed raspberries and eating them right then and there! But while sun is the big secret, there are a few other tricks to ensuring a massive harvest.
The Perfect Conditions for Happy Raspberries
For the most part, raspberries are pretty low-maintenance, which is why you see them in so many backyard gardens. However, they do have a “wish list” for their forever home. They thrive when they have plenty of airflow, lots of light, and nutrient-dense soil. If you check these boxes, your bushes will reward you with those sweet, plump berries we all love. Here’s what to look for in a planting site:
- A sunny spot
- Protection from harsh winds
- Nutrient-rich soil
- Loose, well-aerated dirt (no heavy compaction!)
- Consistently moist soil
- Excellent drainage (no “wet feet”)
- A weed-free zone
Getting that soil nice and loose is key. I recommend prepping the ground well before you even put your plants in. Raspberries hate standing water; if the rain or hose water can’t drain away, you’re looking at a high risk of root rot. This fungal disease can really do a number on your bushes, so keep things well-drained!
Also, make sure to stay on top of weeding. A great pro-tip is to add a layer of mulch. Mulching is a lifesaver because it suppresses weeds before they start, keeps the soil moist, and adds nutrients back into the earth as it breaks down.
Give Them Their Own Space
One thing many gardeners overlook is who the neighbors are. It’s best not to crowd your raspberries with other types of berry bushes. They are heavy feeders and don’t like competing for nutrients in the soil. Ideally, you should plant them in a spot where no other berries have grown for at least a few years to ensure the soil is fresh and full of the “good stuff” they need to thrive.
