Question:
I want to plant Raspberries and Blackberries in a six-foot wide side yard. How might I control the underground runners? I'm considering planting the vines in the ground or building a raised bed with a root barrier. Which option do you favor?Answer:
- You're right to be concerned about the underground stems or rhizomes. Raspberries and Blackberries, also known as cane berries, are highly invasive and don't respect property lines.
- Planting them on any type of shared fence is a big mistake. You'll struggle to control the vegetative growth that spreads through and under the fence into your neighbor's yard. This could lead to an expensive neighbor dispute.
- So, I'd recommend planting them off the fence line in a two-foot high, four-foot-wide raised bed. A 'root barrier' is a crucial addition, whether the vines are in a raised bed or in the ground, as it provides an extra layer of protection.
- In the center of the bed, construct a 'T' bar trellis, a 4x8 post every six feet with a 2x4 cross beam, with wires running between the supports, and attach the vines to the wire.
- With the vines off the fence line, you can harvest the berries from both sides, as each side should get equal light. Cane berries fruit only on the second-year wood, so once you have finished harvesting the crop, you cut the fruiting canes off at the ground; otherwise, you'll create a thick, thorny, unmanageable, vegetative mess.
- The new growth at the base of the plants is then attached to the trellis for next year's crop.
- Runners will eventually escape and appear in the space between the bed and the fence. The shoots are controlled by hand pulling or spraying them with a nonselective herbicide.
- Now, there are two dwarf varieties, Raspberry Shortcakes and Baby Cakes Blackberry, that offer a third option, which I personally prefer.
- These varieties have a compact, upright growth habit, growing three to four feet, so they don't require staking or trellising.
- I'd suggest planting them in a raised bed and growing them as a fruiting hedge. The fruit is borne in the second year of growth, so you still have to prune off the stems after harvesting.
- Raspberry Shortcakes and Baby Cakes Blackberry are also ideal for individual containers.
- Along with strawberries and blueberries, they expand the homegrown fruit available to be grown on a deck, patio, or balcony. This means that fresh raspberries and blackberries are now within reach for all types of gardeners, offering a convenient and satisfying solution.
Question:
Does rock salt or table salt kill weeds? If so, do I have to spray water on it to dissolve?Answer:
- Yes, salt can be used as an herbicide. It's not recommended around plants, but it can be effective for weed control in brick walkways, driveways, and between pavers.
- However, you need to be cautious, as salt will sterilize the ground and kill desirable plants for an extended period of time. It can be applied dry or dissolved in water.