Do Boysenberries Grow on Trees?

History

• While the berries are named after Rudolf Boysen, they were made famous by another farmer who was interested in the Boysen's breeding projects. Walter Knot, founder of Knot's berry farms, went to Boysens farm to see the new types of berries that Boysen was cultivating. By the time Knot arrived, Boysen had abandoned his farm and moved on. Undeterred, Knot discovered several canes of a large hybrid berry and transplanted them to his own farm. Knot sold the new type of berries as "boysenberries."

Description

• Boysenberries grow on clusters of long canes that can measure over 20 feet in length. The berries are much larger than blackberries or raspberries, and can reach over 1 inch in diameter. The berries have a dark maroon to purple color when ripe and do not have large seeds.

Site Selection and Preparation

• Boysenberries grow best in full sunlight in rich, well-drained soils at home. Amend the soil on your property by mixing in one part organic compost or manure with one part parent soil. Compost improves soil drainage and provides additional nutrients needed for healthy boysenberry development. Boysenberries should be trained to a ridged trellis system to maximize fruit production. Install a trellis system before planting Boysenberries in your landscape.

Planting and Care

• Boysenberries are hardy canes once established. Plant boysenberries in late October or November. Space plants at least 6 feet apart to provide ample room for the canes to grow on the trellis without crowding neighboring plants. Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants after planting. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and prevents weeds from competing with your boysenberry plants. After the first year, boysenberries produce best when pruned to control the growth of the canes on the trellis.