General Information on Growing Raspberries
To achieve the desired high quality, it is important to select the right varieties, use high-quality planting stock, and pay close attention to the production process. Local conditions and possibilities must also be taken into account. Key factors include soil conditions, location, and plant health. Protected cultivation of raspberry plants can be achieved by using a tunnel, a rain cover, or a greenhouse. By using these cultivation methods, the plants are largely protected from sudden changes in weather and can be harvested while dry. This significantly improves marketability. Additionally, planning and implementing a staggered harvest schedule in protected cultivation—whether to bring forward or delay the harvest—is easily achievable. In protected cultivation, the use of pesticides is not strictly necessary, as susceptibility to pests and diseases is very low. However, care should be taken with powdery mildew and spider mites, as humidity and heat can increase susceptibility to these issues. The cherry fruit fly can also be a problem in late summer and fall.
Cultivation Methods
For raspberry plants, you can choose between growing them in natural soil or in a growing medium. If possible, the soil should have a loose structure to ensure proper regulation of water, nutrients, and air. For reference, a soil test or analysis of previous crops and irrigation water can provide very useful information.
Substrate Culture
In substrate-based cultivation, long-cane raspberry plants are primarily used. These are mostly grown in containers (potted long-cane plants) or, alternatively, directly in substrate troughs. For successful container cultivation, it is important to ensure that the plants are regularly supplied with water and nutrients. However, waterlogging must be avoided at all costs. In this cultivation method, continuous drip irrigation is recommended to ensure optimal supply. Raspberries have higher nutrient requirements than strawberries. Flat or slightly sloped surfaces are ideal for irrigation. Reasons for growing in substrate may include, for example, limited soil availability, soil exhaustion, the use of a rotational crop, improved fruit quality, weed suppression, and the achievement of higher yields. For substrate cultivation, specialized advice on fertilization and crop management is absolutely essential.
Timed Harvesting
Timed harvesting is particularly beneficial for those who wish to plan a specific harvest period with consistently high fruit quality. This cultivation method is made possible by using chilled raspberry canes. Depending on weather conditions, it takes about 10–12 weeks from planting to harvest. The plants are set out at intervals to ensure a long harvest period.
Growing in Tunnels
From Beginners to Professionals
Tunnel cultivation is becoming increasingly popular. This growing method offers a good way to reduce some of the production and marketing risks. In addition, the first farms are beginning to grow crops in substrate.
You can find more detailed information—from planning and preparation to detailed crop management—under our projects.