Blackberries are the ultimate survivors. Just when you think you’ve finally cleared them out, they have a knack for popping right back up from the soil! Because they’re so resilient, there are a few tricks to keep in mind if you’re planning on moving them to a new home in your yard.
Finding the Perfect New Spot for Your Blackberries
Having a blackberry bush in your garden is honestly a game-changer. You get weeks of delicious, aromatic fruit that’s packed with health benefits, and let’s be real—they aren’t exactly high-maintenance divas. That’s why it’s such a shame to get rid of a healthy plant entirely.
Before you decide to toss it, why not try moving it to a better location? The key is finding a spot where it can really thrive. Blackberries love it sunny and warm, and they aren’t big fans of being whipped around by harsh winds. If you’re tight on garden space, you can even grow them against a sunny wall using a trellis for support.
When is the Best Time to Move Blackberries?
For the best results, you’ll want to transplant your blackberries in the spring. Once the ground has thawed out—usually around April—you’re good to go. If your plant already has “second-year” canes (the ones from last season), you might even get a harvest this year! If you only have new, first-year growth, you’ll have to be a little patient; blackberries only fruit on canes that are two years old.
Just like with any other plant, try to avoid moving them during a dry spell. You don’t want to put the plant through unnecessary “drought stress.” Since early spring is usually pretty damp, you should be fine, but make sure to give the plant a deep soak once it’s in its new home and keep an eye on the watering for the first few weeks.
Prepping the New Home
You’ll want to have the new hole ready to go before you even pick up your shovel to dig up the plant. Blackberry roots are surprisingly sensitive, so the less time they spend out of the dirt, the better. Try to keep the root ball as intact as possible and avoid trimming away any roots if you can help it.
Dig a hole roughly 20x20x20 inches (50cm). To give your blackberry a great head start, it’s a smart move to fertilize right at the time of planting. Some great natural options to mix in include:
- Well-rotted manure (horse, chicken, or cow),
- Bark mulch, or
- Fresh grass clippings.
