Thornless Boysenberry

Watering

Water your Thornless Boysenberry deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Adjust watering based on weather conditions.

Mulching

Replenish mulch around the base of your plants each year to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Pruning

In late fall or early winter, remove old, unproductive canes (floricanes) that have already fruited. This encourages new growth for next season’s bounty.

Fertilizing

In early spring, provide your Thornless Boysenberry with a balanced slow-release fertilizer or compost to give them a nutrient boost throughout the growing season.

Supporting

Train your Thornless Boysenberry vines on a trellis or fence for optimal growth. This allows for better sun exposure, air circulation, and easier picking.

Protecting

If you live in a region with harsh winters, shield your Thornless Boysenberry plants with mulch or burlap to safeguard them from freezing temperatures.

When It Arrives

When your Thornless Boysenberry arrives, water them deeply to settle the soil around the roots. Aim for a good soaking, but avoid creating puddles.

During the First Year

During the first year, water your Thornless Boysenberry deeply 1-2 times a week, especially during hot or dry weather. Ensure the soil stays moist but not soggy, allowing the top inch to dry slightly between waterings.

After the First Year

After the first year, your Thornless Boysenberry plants are more established. Water them deeply once a week, or more frequently if experiencing hot and dry weather. Let the top 2-3 inches of soil dry before watering again.

Extra Tips

Water early in the morning to allow the soil to absorb moisture effectively. Water directly at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote disease. Adjust your watering routine based on your climate and rainfall patterns.

When It Arrives

When your Thornless Boysenberry arrives, hold off on fertilizing. The nursery pots typically contain enough nutrients for the initial growth stage.

During the First Year

Fertilize your Thornless Boysenberry once in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or composted manure. This provides essential nutrients for healthy growth and development.

After the First Year

Fertilize your Thornless Boysenberry again in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or composted manure. You can also add a light feeding in mid-summer to encourage continued fruit production.

Extra Tips

Always follow the application instructions on the fertilizer package. Over-fertilizing can damage your plants. Water your plants thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent burning the roots.

Understanding the Canes

Thornless Boysenberry have two types of canes: floricanes (first-year canes that fruit this season) and primocanes (new canes growing this season that will fruit next year).

Steps for Pruning

Prune in late fall or early winter when the plants are dormant. Remove all fruited floricanes (cut them back to ground level) to encourage new growth for next season. Thin out remaining primocanes, keeping only 3-4 of the strongest and most vigorous ones per plant.

After Pruning

Clean your tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of disease. Dispose of prunings by composting healthy canes or discarding diseased ones in the trash.

Are Thornless Boysenberry truly thornless?

Thornless Boysenberry have significantly fewer thorns compared to traditional boysenberry varieties. While occasional thorny canes may emerge, they are minimal and nowhere near as dense as non-thornless varieties.

How long does it take for Thornless Boysenberry to produce fruit?

You can expect your Thornless Boysenberry plants to produce fruit within 1-2 years after planting. Be patient during the first year as the plant establishes its root system.

How much sun do Thornless Boysenberry need?

Thornless Boysenberry thrive in at least half a day of full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. They will tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Do Thornless Boysenberry need a pollinator?

No, Thornless Boysenberry are self-pollinating, which means they don’t require additional plants for fruit production. This simplifies planting and care, making them ideal for beginner gardeners.

How big do Thornless Boysenberry plants get?

A mature Thornless Boysenberry plant can reach 4-6 feet tall and wide. Providing a trellis or support system is recommended to manage the canes and encourage healthy fruit production.

Is it difficult to care for Thornless Boysenberry?

Thornless Boysenberry are relatively easy to care for with proper watering, mulching, and pruning. Our comprehensive care guide provides detailed instructions for each stage of growth. They are a rewarding addition to any garden.