How to Care for Chester Blackberries

Fertilize your Chester blackberries three times a year -- when primocanes begin developing, again in late May and the third time in late June. Apply 1 to 1 1/2 oz. of a nitrogen fertilizer, split up equally into the three recommended applications. Contact a local county extension agent for advice if you use organic mulch and, after the first treatment, think you need more fertilizer.

Spread landscape cloth around your Chester blackberry bushes or apply an organic mulch like compost to prevent weed growth and retain moisture. Apply mulch in a layer 1 to 2 inches deep.

Irrigate your Chester blackberry bushes with 1 1/2 inches of water weekly from June until the end of summer. Avoid irrigating if natural rainfall equals the necessary amount of water. The N.C. State University Cooperative Extension recommends irrigating under the blackberry plants -- such as with a drip irrigation system -- instead of overhead so you don't encourage rot disease.

Grow Chester blackberries in full sunlight for best fruit production. A location with partial shade is acceptable, but avoid full shade.

Plant Chester blackberries in well-drained loam soil with good fertility. Avoid waterlogged soils. Maintain a pH level of 5.5 to 7.

Trim your Chester blackberry brambles with pruning shears during the summer. Prune off the uppermost 2 inches to promote growth. Cut away dead canes during the winter.