When Do Raspberries Ripen?

Berry Type

• Raspberries fall into two broad categories: summer-bearing and fall-bearing. Summer-bearing raspberries bear fruit on year-old canes in June or July. Fall-bearing raspberries--also known as everbearing--produce fruit on year-old wood in June or July followed by a second crop on new canes in September or October.

Cultivar

• Ripening times vary according to the cultivar. Summer-bearing Haut and Bristol varieties produce fruit in early summer, while Latham and Sentry ripen in midsummer. Brandywine ripens from late July to early August. Fall Gold is one of the earliest fall-bearing varieties, producing fruit in August or September. Heritage raspberries ripen from late September to October.

Growing Conditions

• Growing conditions also influence ripening times. Raspberries grown in sunny, protected areas ripen more quickly than those in shaded, windy locations. Raspberries need annual fertilizing in the spring as well as a consistent supply of water to produce and ripen high-quality fruit. Annual pruning is important to keep the bushes productive, as neglected raspberries rarely bear and ripen good fruit.

Recommendations

• Buy raspberry plants adapted to your region. Fall-bearing varieties are well-suited to areas that experience late spring frosts, although late-bearing cultivars such as Heritage may not ripen before fall frosts. Summer-bearing types grow well in areas with mild springs. Plant two or three types to enjoy fresh raspberries most of the summer and into fall.