Growing Blackberries in Central Texas: Varieties, Care, and Culture Blackberries grow exceptionally well in Central Texas when you follow a few essential guidelines. Consistent production depends on proper irrigation, correct pruning, and effective weed control. With the right care, blackberries reward gardeners with years of reliable harvests. Understanding Blackberry Growth Habits Most blackberry plants are biennial, meaning they produce fruit on second-year canes, known as floricanes. However, newer introductions from the University of Arkansas—called Prime-Ark® blackberries—produce fruit on both first-year canes (primocanes) and second-year canes. As a result, these varieties can yield two harvests per year, making them especially attractive for Texas gardeners. Blackberries prefer sandy soils with good drainage, [...]

How to Prune Blackberries in Central Texas (Without Killing Your Crop) One of the most common questions readers ask me is, “How do I prune my blackberries?” While it’s an excellent question, most gardeners ask it at the wrong time of year. As a result, pruning mistakes often lead to poor fruit production or stressed plants. To clear up the confusion, let’s take the mystery out of pruning blackberries. Once you understand how blackberry plants grow, pruning becomes simple, timely, and highly effective. First, Know How Blackberries Grow Before you ever pick up pruning shears, you need to understand one key fact:Blackberries have perennial roots and biennial canes. In other [...]