When to Plant Raspberry Bushes in Eastern Washington State

Winter and Fall

• Raspberries are suited for temperate, mild winters, which are rare in Eastern Washington State. Planting during cool seasons is not recommended. Provide shelter for your raspberry bushes. Plant them in a site protected from wind and frost. Avoid siting them in frost pockets at the bottom of hills and slopes or at the edges of a structure.

Spring and Summer

• Washington State University horticulturists recommend Heritage and Sumner cultivars for Eastern Washington. These shrubs are late-season bushes, reducing the possibility of damage from spring frosts. Purchase the plants at a garden center or nursery and plant them in a protected area after the last frost date. Summer planting is not advised. Summer heat stress stunts raspberry bush growth. Planting at this time increases the plant's stress.

Pollination and Harvest

• Raspberries self-pollinate, so it is not necessary to plant more than one shrub. Raspberries should yield fruit throughout June and July.