How to Mulch Raspberries With Straw

Raspberry bushes require constant weed control to grow well. The bushes can't tolerate weed competition for soil nutrients or moisture. Weeds grow quickly in the rich, moist soil surrounding raspberry canes, making it difficult to control the weeds by hand or cultivation. A thick mulch layer suppresses weed growth so the seeds can't sprout successfully. Mulch also provides insulation to the soil around the raspberries, which helps retain soil moisture and maintain soil temperature.

Hoe or tiller
Straw or sawdust

Instructions

- 1
  Clear the raspberry bed of weeds prior to mulching. Hand pull weeds around the canes and between the plants to avoid damage to the raspberry roots. Cultivate the top 2 inches of soil between the raspberry rows with a tiller or hoe to remove the weeds.
- 2
  Spread a thick layer of mulch between the raspberry rows. Apply up to 8 inches of straw or 3 inches of sawdust.
- 3
  Mulch around the base of the raspberry plants with a thinner layer of material, or the mulch will prevent the raspberry plants from sending up new shoots in spring. Use 2 or 3 inches of straw or 1 or 2 inches of sawdust.
- 4
  Replenish the mulch layer in fall to maintain its depth year-round. Mulch decomposes and breaks down, requiring annual reapplication.

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