Should you pinch the tops of everbearing raspberries: the secret of a double harvest is revealed
Everbearing raspberries are a real treasure for gardeners, capable of delighting with sweet berries twice a season.
However, to get the maximum yield, it is important to know the intricacies of caring for this crop. One of the key issues is the need to pinch the tops of the shoots.
Remontant raspberries differ from regular varieties by their ability to bear fruit on the current year's shoots. This allows harvesting not only in mid-summer, but also in autumn. This feature makes remontant varieties attractive to gardeners seeking to extend the season of fresh berries.
Pinching the tops is an agrotechnical technique aimed at stimulating the growth of lateral shoots. In remontant raspberries, this method is used to increase the yield and improve the quality of the berries.
When the top is removed, the plant redirects nutrients to the formation of side branches, on which flower buds will subsequently form.
The optimal time for pinching the tops of remontant raspberries is when the shoots reach a height of 70-80 cm. This usually happens in late May - early June. It is important not to be late with the procedure, since pinching too late can lead to a delay in fruiting.
The pinching procedure is simple: use sharp pruning shears or scissors to remove the upper part of the shoot, 5-10 cm long.
The cut is made above a healthy bud located at the desired height. After pinching, the plant begins to actively form lateral shoots, on which flowers and berries will subsequently appear.
Correctly performed pinching helps to increase the yield of remontant raspberries.
Lateral shoots formed after the procedure produce more fruit branches, which leads to the formation of a larger number of berries. In addition, their quality improves - the berries become larger and juicier.
