When to plant Raspberry?

Raspberries thrive in full sun or partial shade, though a sunny position will give you the heaviest crop and sweetest fruit. Choose a sheltered spot away from strong winds, which can damage canes and deter pollinating insects. The soil should be moisture-retentive but well-drained; loam or sandy soil enriched with plenty of organic matter is ideal. Avoid waterlogged ground, as raspberries are prone to root rot in heavy, poorly drained conditions. Plant bare-root canes in October, November, or March when the soil is workable and not frozen. Container-grown plants can go in at any time during the growing season, but autumn or early spring planting gives them the best start. Prepare the bed by digging in generous amounts of well-rotted compost or manure to a depth of at least 30 cm. Space canes 50 cm apart in rows, with 1.5–2 metres between rows to allow access for picking and pruning. Plant each cane so the roots are spread out and the previous soil mark on the stem sits level with the new soil surface—planting too deep can lead to rot. Firm the soil gently around the roots, then cut the cane back to about 25 cm above ground level to encourage strong new growth from the base. Water thoroughly after planting and apply a 5–7 cm layer of mulch (compost, well-rotted manure, or bark) around the base, keeping it clear of the stems themselves. Install a post-and-wire support system before or immediately after planting; raspberries need sturdy horizontal wires at 75 cm, 1 metre, and 1.5 metres high to tie in the fruiting canes as they grow.