Traditionally blackberries have only been floricane producers – bearing fruit on laterals in their 2nd year. But thanks to the tireless work of clever Rubus breeders like John Clark from University of Arkansas – he has developed the likes of Prime-Ark 45. This is an exceptionally exciting time for blackberry growers as this can be a REAL game changer. I have a feeling they will be grown similarily to primocane raspberries.
Blackberries in Ireland.
Long-cane blackberries in Watsonville, California
The “Watsonville Weave” of blackberries in Watsonville, California.
Blackberries do require chill but are a lot more tolerant of hotter/drier climates – these berries are a lot hardier than raspberries too. So better for distance travel.