How to grow raspberries

WA Scene | August 18, 2011 | 0 Comments

Fresh Raspberries

How to grow raspberries in Perth, Western Australia

Raspberries are a delicious tasting healthy snack, which are jam packed full of antioxidants and, despite what many people think, can be grown at home. Raspberries are reasonably uncommon in Perth due to our hot weather but they can be grown and thrive in the cooler parts of Western Australia.

If you have ever wondered how to grow raspberries in Perth then look no further. A relatively simple fruit to grow there are a few tricks to successfully growing raspberries in Perth, Western Australia but get these right and you will be laughing.

Varieties of raspberries in Western Australia:
Plants are part of the rubus family and there are many hybrids, some crossed with other berry plants like blackberries. Gardeners in cooler areas of the South West can grow a wide range of rubus plants. In Perth’s warmer areas you will need to try one of the low-chill varieties of raspberries. One of the best varieties for warmer climates like ours is Heritage raspberries, which fruits in autumn and needs only 250 hours of chilling below 10c. Other varieties to try are Chilliwack raspberries, am almost thornless variety that ripens mid-season over four weeks, and Chilcotin raspberries which are a high-yielding variety of raspberry.

When to plant raspberries in Perth:
The best time to plant raspberries is in late autumn or early winter, when bare-rooted canes are available in nurseries. Growing raspberries in pots is a good option in Perth. Raspberries can be grown in very big containers filled will a premium potting mix with added water-storage crystals. In hot climates, plants must be positioned in an area that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. It is recommended that raspberries are planted in rich, free-draining soils with lots of soil improver. If soil is sandy then add some clay to mix to aid moisture and nutrient retention.

When to harvest raspberries:
Raspberries are ready for eating when the fruit’s colour changes from a light red to a deeper, darker red, almost maroon. Try pulling off the berry. If it slips off easily it’s ready. If you need to use any pressure to move the berry it’s not ready yet.

Storing raspberries at home:
Raspberries are one of the most perishable berries. The best way to store raspberries at home is in the fridge in a breathable container. Keep them front and middle of the shelf in your refrigerator (between 0° and 1°C) where they’ll be visible and easy to reach. Do not store raspberries in the back of the refrigerator or in the crisper.

You can also store them in the freezer and use them later for things like smoothies. Washing the berries before storage can extend their shelf life by removing unwanted mould. Which is a common problem with raspberries.

Raspberry care and common problems:
Raspberry canes may be attacked by scale. Keep an eye out for them and treat at first sight with a citrus and ornamental spray. In warm, humid conditions, raspberries are susceptible to various cane and leaf issues, including anthracnose, leaf blight or spur blight. To help prevent fungal problems, avoid overhead watering and spray with an appropriate fungicide.

If you have any tips on how to grow raspberries please feel free to share them in the comments section below.