The Smith County Master Gardener Program is advising the public to consider growing blackberries at home, as they are relatively easy to cultivate and produce well in East Texas. Blackberries are generally planted as 1-gallon containerized plants, preferably in the fall and winter months to ensure establishment before the summer droughts. These plants require at least eight hours of full sun, acidic well-drained soils, and regular fertilization. After fruiting, the previous year’s canes should be pruned to encourage branching and heavier fruit production in the following year.
There are numerous blackberry cultivars recommended for Texas, including thornless and thorny varieties. While thorny varieties may be more challenging to pick, they generally produce higher yields. Blackberries are self-fertile and do not require more than one cultivar to pollinate. Additionally, blackberries are native to North America, making them well-suited to the Texas climate.
For those interested in growing blackberries at home, more information can be found in the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service publication under fruit and nut resources on the Aggie Horticulture website. The Smith County Master Gardener Program, a volunteer organization in connection with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, is available to provide further guidance and support for individuals looking to start their own blackberry gardens.
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