How to Identify Wild Blackberries of Oregon

Blackberry bushes, or brambles, grow and bloom in summertime, but can live for many years under the right conditions. These large bushes thrive in the hot summers and moist winters of Oregon. Washington State University notes that blackberries grow especially well in the Salem area, but can survive throughout the state in both commercial and wild growing situations. If you live in Oregon and feel like hunting for wild blackberries, get your timing right and make sure you know what to look for.

Instructions

- 1
  Look in places that get full sunshine. Although blackberries can grow in partial shade, they probably won't bloom or bear fruit in those areas. In wild situations, blackberries will naturally gravitate toward areas where they'll get full sun for at least six hours a day.
- 2
  Look for blackberries in spots that get complete drainage. Although blackberries like to have moist soil, they can't grow in standing water, and won't grow in creek beds or on the banks of rivers.
- 3
  Identify the structure of the plant. Blackberry bushes may grow as large as 10 feet by 10 feet, and grow as either self-supporting canes or climbing vines. Look for plants that grow densely populated, woody stems and dark green, rounded leaves that have striated edges. Blackberries may or may not have thorns.
- 4
  Look for blackberries in the right seasons. Blackberries bear small white blooms in spring and early summer, and telltale berries in June and July.

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