How to Plant Kiowa Blackberries in Texas

Blackberries are large, sweet and juicy berries that taste of summer pies, tarts and jams. These hardy berries grow on large, thorny bushes and vines in both cultivated and wild varieties, but always produce summertime crops. The Kiowa blackberry entered the market in 1996 as a hardy variety that produces extremely large, sweet berries. Kiowa blackberry bushes ripen in early June and fruit for up to six weeks with the appropriate care. Kiowa is ideal for zones 6 to 9 of Texas.

Quick-draining soil
Organic compost
Mulch
Spade

Instructions

- 1
  Plant Kiowa blackberries in spring, after the ground thaws. In zone 9 of Texas this may occur as early as March, while gardeners in North Texas may need to wait for April or May. Choose a site that gets full sun for at least eight hours a day, and complete drainage. Although blackberries may grow in partial shade, they won't bloom or fruit. Choose a site that is far removed from any other plants, as blackberries grow tall and may shade out other plants.
- 2
  Amend the soil to a depth of 1 foot with a combination of half quick-draining soil and half organic compost. Blackberries require loose, deep soil that is quick to drain. Plant Kiowa blackberry bushes deeply enough to cover the entire root ball, and pack amended soil around the base of the plants for support.
- 3
  Water the Kiowa blackberries with 2 inches of water. In cooler areas like North Texas, mulch the berries with 1 inch of organic mulch to maintain soil moisture and warmth. Expect Kiowa blackberries to fruit in their second year.

How to Produce Cranberry Juice

How to Grow Blackberries in South Georgia

Growing Berries