The Best Blackberries for Containers

Arapaho

• Arapaho is probably one of the best blackberry varieties for home container growing. Developed by the University of Arkansas, Arapaho is a plant of many virtues: erect, thornless and prolific, producing a good crop of high-quality fruit. In addition, Arapaho is resistant to two plagues of homegrown blackberry plants: double blossom and orange rust. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9 and ripens early in the season. Since Arapaho was developed in 1993, it has had time to establish a good track record for success. It is possible that Arapaho will be supplanted by more recent emigrants from the University of Arkansas breeding program.

Natchez

• The Natchez blackberry was developed in 2007. Its berries are sweet and flavorful, and preliminary trials have produced crop yields that are double those of Arapaho. Early trials suggest Natchez also is resistant to common blackberry diseases. Fruit ripens slightly later than that of Arapaho, and the plant is slightly less hardy -- good for zones 5 through 9.

Ouachita

• Ouachita is another variety expected to outpace Arapaho. Developed in 2003, Ouachita has produced consistent high yields of large, flavorful fruit. Disease resistance is good. Ouachita is hardy in zones 5 through 9.

Older Varieties

• Apache is the predecessor of Arapaho, developed in 1988. It also is erect and thornless in habit, and produces moderate crops of very large berries. Navaho, developed in 1989, bears fruit that is ranked as excellent eating quality, but the plant is susceptible to orange rust. Both varieties are hardy in zones 6 through 9, and bear fruit rather later in the season.