Acid Soil & Blackberries

Soil Requirements

• For best results, plant the vines in slightly acidic soil. If the soil is lacking acid, apply a soil supplement or fertilizer before growth starts to boost the acidity and maintain a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. Fertilize the blackberries twice a year to maintain the acidity.

Moisture Retention and Watering

• Immediately after planting, thoroughly water the plants and top the dirt with mulch to keep in the moisture. During hot months, give the blackberries about 1 to 2 inches of water a week and in the winter, keep the plants dry. Keeping the vines moist during the harvesting season produces plump, juicy berries.

Harvesting and Storage

• Pick the berries when they are deep purple and easily yield to removal. Freeze fresh blackberries by spreading them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid and placing them in plastic storage bags.