What to do with raspberries after fruiting: secrets of a rich harvest next season

Raspberries are a favorite berry of many gardeners. However, after harvesting, the plant requires special attention and care.

Correct actions during this period lay the foundation for future fruiting, ensuring the health and productivity of the bush for many years.

Anastasia Kovrizhnykh, an expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", a scientist agronomist and landscape designer, told how to do the right thing.

Pruning and removing fruiting shoots

Immediately after the end of fruiting, an important stage in caring for raspberries begins - pruning.

Two-year-old shoots that have borne fruit must be removed, as they have already fulfilled their function and will no longer produce a harvest.

Their presence only takes away nutrients from young, promising branches.

Old stems should be cut at the root, trying not to leave stumps. This approach will prevent the development of fungal diseases and improve air circulation in the raspberry patch.

Thinning out annual shoots

Annual shoots are the future of the raspberry patch. However, their excess can lead to thickening of the bush and a decrease in yield.

The optimal number is 4-6 strong shoots per linear meter of row. The rest should be removed, choosing the weakest, crooked or growing in the wrong direction.

Thinning will provide better light and nutrition to the remaining branches, which will have a positive effect on the future harvest.

Fertilizing and mulching

After pruning, raspberries need nutrients to restore strength and prepare for winter. Phosphorus-potassium fertilizers will help strengthen the root system and increase frost resistance of plants.

Organic fertilizers such as compost or humus also have a beneficial effect on the development of the bush.

It is important to avoid nitrogen fertilizers during this period, as they can provoke the growth of new shoots that will not have time to mature before the onset of cold weather.

Mulching the soil around the bushes will help retain moisture, suppress weed growth and enrich the soil with organic matter.

Straw, sawdust or mown grass can be used as mulch. A 5-7 cm layer of mulch will create favorable conditions for the development of the root system and protect it from sudden temperature changes.

Disease prevention

Autumn is the ideal time to prevent raspberry diseases. Removing fallen leaves and plant debris will help prevent the spread of fungal infections.

Treating bushes with copper-containing preparations or a solution of Bordeaux mixture will protect plants from many pathogens.

It is important to carry out these measures before the onset of persistent cold weather to give the raspberries time to recover after treatment.

Preparing for winter

In regions with harsh winters, raspberries need additional protection. Bending shoots to the ground and covering them with spruce branches or agrofibre will help protect the buds from freezing.

In milder climates, it is enough to mulch the tree trunks with a thick layer of organic matter. Such measures will ensure the safety of the plants and their readiness for the new season.