Why Raspberries Grow Pea-Size: What Determines the Size of the Berry
Many gardeners face a problem: raspberries suddenly start producing small berries, although everything was fine last year.
The phenomenon is widespread and has a number of causes. There are two main factors that lead to a decrease in the size of the berries.
Why do raspberries become smaller?
1. An old raspberry patch tends to degenerate. After 5-7 years, the plants lose their varietal qualities. This is a natural process that cannot be avoided. But you can try to fix the situation - plant young shoots.
2. Raspberries can be crowded. Gardeners recommend growing 6-12 bushes over 2-3 years old per 1 sq. m. The variety plays a big role, for example, some varieties are spreading, while others are compressed.
The average distance between shoots is 70 cm, and between rows – 70-100 cm with compact planting. Young shoots should be removed – transplanted or thrown away.
There are other factors that affect the size of the berries. For example, poor watering will definitely have a negative effect on the size of the fruit. Raspberries are a moisture-loving crop. A viral disease can leave its mark, including on the size of the berries.
