How Far Apart to Plant Raspberry Bushes?

Erect Raspberries

• An erect raspberry bush is one that will support itself instead of growing alongside a fence or trellis. This type of raspberry plant can grow in an open area in the full sun. Space the plants three feet apart down the row of the garden area. The rows should not be planted closer than 12 feet from each other.

Red and Yellow Raspberries

• Red and yellow raspberries can be trained to grow on a trellis or trail a fence. This will save space for the fruit gardener who has a smaller area to use but doesn't want to give up the rewards of growing his own fresh berries. Rows of plants only have to be 10 feet apart, and the plants can be spaced two feet apart.

Black Raspberries

• Many gardeners choose black raspberry plants because they are so hardy. They should have enough space to thrive when the rows are 10 feet apart. Plant the black raspberries every two-and-a-half feet down the rows. Use a low trellis if the plants need support.

Purple Raspberries

• Purple raspberry plants will grow nicely without any type of support system. They won't have to compete for space or soil nutrients when you plant them at three-foot intervals down rows that are spaced 12 feet apart.

Thornless Raspberries

• A lot of room is needed to grow the thornless raspberry and it needs a high trellis for support. Keep a distance of at least six feet between each plant in the row. Space the rows 12 feet apart.

Special Spacing Considerations

• If the garden has extremely fertile soil, the raspberry plants will grow vigorously. It's a good idea to slightly increase the growing space so that they don't become overcrowded. If wild raspberry or blackberry plants are in the area, don't plant the new raspberries within 300 feet of them.