Pruning Blackberry Bushes: Complete Guide for Trailing and Erect Varieties
Quick Facts
- Best Time to Prune: Late winter for main pruning, after harvest for cleanup
- Tools Needed: Sharp pruning shears, loppers, heavy-duty gloves, trellis system
- Frequency: Twice yearly - winter pruning and post-harvest cleanup
- Difficulty Level: Moderate. Thorns require careful handling
Blackberry Types and Their Pruning Needs
Erect Blackberries
- Stand upright without support
- Need regular tip pruning
- Require summer pruning
- Common varieties: 'Navaho', 'Ouachita'
Trailing Blackberries
- Require trellis support
- More flexible canes
- Higher yield potential
- Common varieties: 'Marion', 'Boysen'
Seasonal Pruning Calendar
Spring (March-May)
- Remove winter-damaged canes
- Thin out weak primocanes
- Train new growth to supports
Summer (June-August)
- Tip prune new growth
- Remove fruited canes
- Train primocanes
Fall (September-November)
- Clean up old canes
- Secure canes for winter
- Final tipping of primocanes
Winter (December-February)
- Major structural pruning
- Remove damaged canes
- Thin out excess growth
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
- Safety First
- Wear thick gloves and protective clothing
- Use sharp, clean tools
- Work carefully around thorns
- Remove Dead and Damaged Canes
- Cut at ground level
- Clear away debris
- Sanitize tools between cuts
- Prune for Production
- Remove old fruiting canes
- Thin remaining canes
- Maintain proper spacing
- Train and Support
- Tie canes to trellis
- Space evenly
- Secure firmly but not tightly
Training Systems
Single-Wire System
- Simple and effective
- Good for small gardens
- Easy maintenance
Double-Wire System
- Better support for heavy crops
- Separates fruiting from new canes
- Ideal for larger plantings
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-pruning: Removing too many primocanes reduces next year's crop
- Poor timing: Pruning at wrong time can stress plants
- Inadequate support: Weak trellis systems can collapse under fruit weight
- Neglecting cleanup: Old canes can harbor diseases and pests
Safety Considerations
- Always wear thick gloves to protect against thorns
- Use eye protection when pruning at face level
- Keep tools sharp to prevent injury from forcing cuts
- Take frequent breaks to maintain focus and prevent accidents
- Have a first aid kit nearby for thorn punctures