Can Raspberries Grow in Sandy Spots?

Water

• Raspberries need quite a bit of water to produce well. They also need good drainage, since they can't sit in wet soil for long periods or they will succumb to root rot. Some sand in the soil helps with drainage, as the loose, sandy soil provides plenty of drainage so that water doesn't remain around the roots too long. If the soil is too sandy, though, the water drains away too quickly and doesn't have a chance to benefit the plants.

Soil Fertility

• The ideal soil for raspberries is highly fertile, with plenty of rich organic matter in it to support the growth of the canes and fruit. Soil that is too sandy is not rich in organic matter and is usually not fertile enough for raspberries to grow well. Even with the addition of various fertilizers, if the soil is too loose and sandy, the raspberries won't be able to grow, because the sand will not be able to hold the nutrients well, and nutrients tend to wash away when the plants are watered.

Soil Amendments

• Very sandy locations can be made more suitable for raspberries by amending the soil with suitable organic matter to change the character of the soil to better suit the plants. One of the best things to do is to add large amounts of well-aged compost and work it well into the soil. This helps to feed the berries by providing many necessary nutrients as well as helping it to hold water. Planting green manure crops such as rye grass can also help to add both nutrients and water-holding capabilities to the soil.

Considerations

• Raspberries are sensitive to a disease known as verticillium wilt. This can be a problem in any soil that has had host plants in it. When trying to amend or enhance sandy soils, avoid using such plants as tomatoes, eggplants, peppers and potatoes in the compost. Also do not plant raspberries where those plants have been for at least five years to eliminate the chance of the disease being transmitted to the new plants.