How to Transplant Blackberry Plants

Blackberries grow best in warm regions of the United States and prefer sandy, acidic soil. There are two types of blackberries, based on their growth habits: erect and trailing. Trailing varieties require a trellis or support from a fence. Although there are newer varieties of blackberries that lack thorns, most brambles are covered with sharp thorns. Wear heavy gloves when working with these types of blackberry plants. Transplant the blackberry plant in early spring, prior to the emergence of new growth.

Heavy gloves
Loppers or shears
Hoe
Bucket
Shovel
Wheelbarrow
Compost
Sphagnum peat moss
Fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the entire blackberry bramble back to 6 inch stems.
- 2
  Use the hoe to cut into the soil in a 3-foot radius around the blackberry. Pry the roots from the soil.
- 3
  Place the roots immediately into a bucket of water to soak while you prepare the new planting hole.
- 4
  Dig up a 1-foot square area in the new planting area. Combine equal parts of compost and sphagnum peat moss in a wheelbarrow and then add it to the soil removed from the planting area. Mix well and place the amended soil back in the planting area.
- 5
  Dig a hole the same depth as the blackberry has been growing in, and three times the width of the rootball. Place the roots into the hole and backfill with soil. Lightly press the soil around the base of the plant with your hands. Water the area deep enough so that the rootball is saturated.
- 6
  Fertilize the blackberry with 5-10-5 as soon as new growth appears.

Blackberry Plant & Mineral Deficiencies

Pacific Northwest Blackberry Plant Varieties

Growing Berries