Blackberry thornless
Content:
Blackberries are a plant that many gardeners have fallen in love with. She may not be planted on the site as often as raspberries, but still she is also gaining popularity, like her sister. The thornless blackberry is becoming more and more popular, as it is very easy to care for. There are no thorns on the shoots and branches, and it is much easier for the gardener to care for the plant, cut it, shape it, and it is also more convenient to harvest to the last berry.
Agree, the question immediately arises of what these thornless varieties are, and which varieties are the most profitable to buy today so that they please the gardener with their abundant fruiting and, at the same time, so that they are distinguished by health, a high level of the immune system so that their resistance to stress is at their best.
It is easier with studless varieties, because agrotechnical work is immediately simplified and accelerated, and in general these varieties are original, bred specifically so that the gardener gets as much benefit as possible, and as a result, the plant has the opportunity to be strong precisely because of the outside care landing.
Blackberry bushy: features
The thornless blackberry includes dozens of different varieties that differ from each other in a variety of ways. Every gardener strives to choose a variety in accordance with his views and needs, and therefore many studless varieties become permanent and beloved classics.
But there are quite a few of them, and therefore, among all the variety, it is imperative to find exactly those varieties that will meet all varieties and needs, as well as those varieties that will give a plentiful and tasty, high-quality harvest in large quantities.
In this article, we will tell you about the features of the thornless varieties, and also consider the most popular and popular thornless varieties that are found in our country, and which gardeners have managed to fall in love with.
This article and this information will be equally useful not only for novice gardeners, but also for those gardeners who already have experience in growing blackberry bushes, but they would like to expand the varietal range and try to grow original plantings on the site with their own distinctive features and characteristics.
We will also tell you how to properly plant blackberry thornless varieties, how to care for them, as well as what breeding methods are the most reliable today, so that new bushes can retain the characteristics and features of the mother shrubs.
All information is research and feedback from experienced breeders and agronomists, as well as feedback from those gardeners who have already grown this variety, and who would like to share their experience and their own observations, which are important for those who are just starting their path in gardening.
Characteristics of the thornless blackberry
Forest blackberries with excellent taste characteristics have long ceased to be just wild blackberries, which grow only in natural conditions.
Breeders have done a great job of crossing varieties and breeding completely new blackberry varieties, and the resulting varieties differ from each other in a number of ways. They ripen at different times, have different heights and growth rates, bushiness, their appearance is also very different, which is also one of the most important characteristics.
There are varieties that are intended exclusively for fruiting, there are varieties with weak fruiting, but incredible external decorative characteristics. Some blackberry varieties can combine everything - both abundant fruiting, and the fact that they look incredibly attractive, especially when they begin to bloom.
Bushes without thorns on shoots and branches are very popular, there are a huge variety of varieties. And the brambleless blackberry itself is distinguished by a number of features that are worth considering, since, based on them, it is imperative to select caring and agrotechnical measures that will meet the needs of these varieties and varieties.
Peculiarities thornless blackberries are as follows:
- the appearance of both the bush and the berries is incredibly pleasant and attractive;
- the fruiting period is one month, the fruits can be harvested gradually, while even if they are overripe, they still will not crumble;
- most of the thornless varieties perfectly tolerate dry periods, as well as severe frosts, their immunity and stress resistance do not suffer from this in any way. This is not only an advantage, but also a feature of this thornless variety of blackberry;
- varieties are distinguished by a high level of yield, which distinguishes the thornless varieties from many others.
It is also worth noting that at the same time, the brambleless blackberry does not differ in any special whimsicality, it can forgive some mistakes and mistakes that gardeners make. In this regard, gardeners without experience can cope with planting and caring for this plant.
Next, we will consider the most popular and demanded varieties of thornless blackberries, and this information will be very useful in order to choose from all the variety exactly those varieties that meet the requirements and tastes of gardeners.
It will also be possible to understand some of the subtleties of planting and caring for plants, so that the result is really very abundant and fertile. The most important thing is to take into account all the nuances. After all, each variety is really individual, and it will only depend on the gardener how these plants will feel, how they will react to certain procedures, and whether they will be well-groomed enough to build up immunity and resistance to stress in any situations and outside interventions ...
Blackberry besshipnaya - varieties and their description
Today, gardeners have bred several tens of thornless varieties of blackberry bush. You can select from the whole variety exactly those varieties that will take root to a greater extent in certain climatic and temperature conditions.
Also, the gardener focuses on the peculiarities of the planting area, on what time is required for the plant in order to safely ripen and give abundant fruiting. It is worth taking into account the personal preferences of the gardener himself in the taste and external characteristics of the shrub, in how he can take care of the plants, whether he can devote enough time to planting to make her feel as comfortable as possible.
In this part of the article, we will talk about different thornless varieties, that they have different growth and development parameters, different taste characteristics, color and, of course, the fruits can also differ from each other in shape, size, development rate and storage time. ...
Blackberry besshipnaya: varieties grown in the Moscow region
For Moscow suburbs there are several varieties of thornless blackberries that grow remarkably in this area. The fact is that the Moscow region is not characterized by the most stable conditions in terms of climate, the weather can change dramatically, the plant does not always respond well to such conditions.
In general, the bushes need the gardener to create the most comfortable conditions for them, and only in this case the plantings will grow well, develop, and in the future they will give a tasty and healthy and, most importantly, a very bountiful harvest.
The following blackberry varieties are perfect for the Moscow region:
Blackberry besshipnaya Apache grade
It is one of the most popular thornless blackberry varieties and has a medium ripening time. The harvest can begin around the end of July, and the fruiting itself can be long, extended.
The berries are large, the weight of one on average can reach up to ten grams, they are very large, painted in a deep black color. The blackberry brambleless Apache also differs in that its resistance to bacteria and pests is very high. The plant also perfectly tolerates sudden changes in temperature and prolonged frosts.
The variety was created in 1988. Scientists then crossed one of the famous novelties of that time - a blackberry variety called Navajo with an experimental hybrid, which also later became known, but then he had only an identification code - Ark. 1007.
Blackberry brambleless Apache is one of the most solid and attractive varieties, as it combines all the most positive characteristics from the mother varieties. As a result, the culture was recognized as one of the most widespread and very promising.
Today, this variety continues to be studied, since gardeners are interested in how it can develop in a wide variety of conditions, how it can react to sudden temperature changes, changes in air humidity, in the soil composition.
At the same time, it should be said that in fact it has already been proven that this variety gives a very large and, most importantly, a stable amount of harvest. From year to year, the berries do not become smaller at all, they remain the same large, beautiful, tasty. Breeding work does not stop, gardeners continue to improve varieties, experiment with planting conditions and subsequent care.
The most important thing is that these experiments always end in success, because there is more and more information about varieties, more and more new characteristics. At the same time, some searches and research dragged on - only in 2001 this variety received an official patent. And also only at this time some subtleties and characteristics of the variety were identified, which just became the main characteristic features of this variety, and which are used when compiling characteristics for a particular variety or for a particular planting.
They strive to make the variety more fertile, both domestic and foreign agronomists and breeders are working on it. I would like to dwell in more detail on the characteristics of the berries of this variety, since it is the quality of the harvest that gardeners pay attention to in the first place. And therefore, it is necessary to turn to this particular issue in order to further understand what kind of variety it is, what are its most important advantages, whether it has any disadvantages, and whether such berries will become a replacement for any other plant from the blackberry family.
Apache berries perfectly tolerate long-distance transportation. They absolutely do not lose either their external characteristics or taste. This variety is great for selling in supermarkets and is used to create frosts. Accordingly, these traits become real positive characteristics that reflect the essence of this variety.
In order for the planting to bear fruit even more, it is sometimes necessary to cut off the blackberry bushes. Thanks to pruning, branches and shoots that have already borne fruit can be removed, as well as prevent thickening of the crown. Since thickening can provoke the development of diseases, the strength of the plant will go to the maintenance of absolutely all its parts, even those that, in principle, have already yielded their crops, and these shoots will no longer bear fruit.
You can propagate the variety in such a way as rooting the tops, and even that gardener who has absolutely no experience in this matter can handle it.There is also a way for more experienced gardeners - these are root suckers, but there are nuances here, and they can only be observed with some skills and special knowledge.
Blackberry besshipnaya Apache variety is distinguished by frost resistance, so lowering temperatures on average to -20 degrees for a plant are not at all terrible. But one way or another, if the gardener still strives to ensure that the planting does not experience any visible stress, then he must still take into account that the plant needs a certain microclimate and, in particular, that there is shelter for the winter period.
Without shelter, some shoots and branches may freeze. The plant will begin to get sick, lose its decorative external signs, become weaker and, most importantly, due to lowered immunity, the ability for normal fruiting will also decrease. So it is still worth taking care of the health of the planting in advance, so that the result justifies itself and all the efforts and costs of the gardener himself.
Blackberry thornless grade Natchez
This is one of the earliest thornless blackberry varieties, which was bred specifically in order to combine the most, perhaps, the most significant and main advantageous characteristics.
This is an upright shrub that ripens very early, and it is quite convenient to care for it, since absolutely no thorns are formed on the shoots and branches.
The height of the bush in a short time can reach about 2.5 meters, and this is far from the limit, since the growth and development of a plant always depends on how the gardener himself takes care of the plantings, whether he gives the plants the necessary care, and whether he can devote time plants in order to comply with all agrotechnical conditions and regulations.
The harvest also ripens very quickly. As a rule, already in mid-June, the gardener can enjoy the very first and very tasty berries, which are very large, and they contain a large amount of vitamins and nutrients, trace elements that can be useful for both children and adults.
If you plant a blackberry in a warm region, then ripening will come even earlier, so you can pay attention to these dates when the variety is planted in a particular area. The berries are large. The weight of one fruit varies from eight to ten centimeters, but again, it all depends on the growing conditions of the plant, since in colder climates the plant will take longer to begin to bear fruit, and the berries may not taste as rich as this I want to.
Blackberry thornless variety Natchez can produce shoots that will initially grow exclusively upward, and after some time - for example, two years, the shoots will begin to creep. At the same time, it is worth noting that it is recommended to cover the variety for the winter, since there is a high probability that the plant simply will not survive sudden changes and drops in temperature.
In adulthood, the bush becomes very spreading and powerful, so it is worth trying very hard in order to organize a shelter in cold weather. After the plant has been planted in an open area, shoots can travel along the ground, and they should be monitored, because the length of the shoot can reach four to five meters.
So in the first year, you can already begin to carry out neat formative pruning, so that otherwise the planting does not grow, and this does not lead to the fact that uncontrolled shoots cannot be collected and covered. In addition, if the plant devotes all its strength to the growth and development of shoots, this will lead to the fact that fruiting will not occur at all.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Chester
Another blackberry variety that is semi-creeping and thornless. Besides that this sort yields wonderful and very tasty fruits, it also looks impressive, especially when ripe.
The blackberry besshorny variety Chester is distinguished by the fact that it gives a very large number of berries, which means that it is characterized by productivity. From one bush, you can collect up to twenty kilograms of berries, and at the same time, of course, it is very important to comply with all the rules and requirements of agricultural technology. Otherwise, the plant may not grow so abundantly and actively, and fruiting will decrease.
To ensure that fruiting is always stable and, of course, abundant, the gardener should focus on what are the features of this variety, whether there are any special needs, whether the bush can tolerate frost and drought, how much watering, soil moisture and other parts of care it needs and agricultural technology.
It should be said right away that the shrub of this variety remarkably tolerates a drop in temperatures down to -27 degrees, but it is still recommended to take care of the shelter of the shrub. Besshipnaya blackberry can perfectly take root in sunny places, seedlings of this variety can be planted in light shading. But at the same time, it is still necessary to remember that this place must be protected from sudden gusts of wind, as well as from drafts, as this will have an extremely negative effect on the general state of the planting, on its fruiting.
In fact, due to the wind, foliage can begin to deform and crumble in very large quantities. Also, due to drafts, the ovary will simply not be able to form, which means that there will be no harvest. Also, in principle, in too windy conditions, the probability of normal pollination decreases, and therefore the amount of fruiting, its volume will significantly decrease.
As for the landing site, it should be a site that will be located on the plain, but sometimes blackberry bushes are abundantly planted on the slopes, where they also feel great. There, the plant will be protected from the winds, and deep groundwater will also be guaranteed there. This means that the root system will not touch moisture and, accordingly, the risks that the roots will rot will be reduced to zero.
Chester brambleless blackberries perfectly take root on loams, the soil must be breathable, and must also be moisture-absorbing. When planting at the bottom of the planting pit, a drainage layer is installed so that all excess moisture leaves the root system and so that it does not rot.
This is a very important condition, since in general it is worth being very careful with watering and moisture in the care of these varieties. You can pick up a site with sandy loam soil. At the same time, during planting, mineral and organic components are introduced, which will saturate the soil, make it enriched, which, of course, will have the best effect on the general condition of the plant, on its fruiting, flowering, on the quality of fruits, their taste characteristics.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Black satin
The variety was bred by American breeders in 1974. The authorship of this variety belongs to D. Scott, who also became the creator of a large number of other varieties and plants.
Blackberry brambleless variety Black satin was obtained as a result of breeding work on crossing such varieties as Darrow and Thornfrey. The result is a completely unique culture that is distinguished by incredibly attractive taste characteristics and, at the same time, unpretentiousness.
In general, if a gardener focuses on all the subtleties in agricultural technology, and also takes into account the needs of planting, then it is highly likely that even an inexperienced gardener will be able to cope with this plant and give him all the best.
Blackberry besshorny variety Black satin is considered one of the most popular among semi-sheltering crops, which, among other things, is also distinguished by very strong shoots, which guarantees that the plant will not succumb to mechanical disturbances.
These are thornless shoots that enable gardeners to properly care for the planting, without encountering at least this difficulty, which, by the way, is very common. The length of the shoots can sometimes reach seven to eight meters, but some gardeners prefer pruning, as they understand that dealing with such giants can be very difficult.
A very important advantage of this variety can be considered just the fact that even if the plant suddenly froze over and, accordingly, the branches and shoots were damaged, they can recover very quickly, and this plant will spend entirely and completely only its own resources.
In addition, pruning will benefit this shrub, since it reacts perfectly to it, tolerates its consequences, and immunity from this is not damaged in any way. There is also a very important point - the bush of this variety perfectly tolerates frosts and droughts. But still, if the gardener wants to achieve the best result, then it is worth considering some points that are precisely related to agricultural technology.
Some gardeners who cultivate this variety may face a problem. It lies in the fact that this variety can actively grow and, in the end, a huge number of lashes and twigs are formed, which become very thickened.
So it is necessary to cut them periodically, and it is very easy to do this, if only because this plant does not have thorns. Also, studlessness helps in harvesting - you can collect every last berry.
This variety is considered one of the most popular among many other thornless varieties. And it really deserves attention from gardeners, as it has a huge number of advantages over many other blackberry varieties.
In addition, this bush can coexist with other varieties - it has a wonderful effect on planting, does not take away too many nutrients and useful substances from the soil, and, accordingly, all this makes it possible for other crops to grow near this shrub.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Black Diamond
This is another variety that we would like to talk about. Bush blackberry black diamond differs in stunting, some emphasize that blackberries may even be dwarf to some extent, but this is not entirely true. The most important thing is that the bushes still look incredibly interesting and attractive, and they are really worth seeing.
This variety, like everything that we have considered before, is studless, excellent for growing in central Russia. This is due to the fact that the bushes tolerate frost remarkably, and can react normally if the temperature drops to -30 degrees Celsius.
At the same time, the yield remains at a very high level. The berry can weigh up to eight grams. The blackberry besshornaya Black Diamond ripens at the very end of July, and also ripening can be postponed to the beginning of August. But this is not so significant, since, in principle, the fruiting duration of the bush is good.
When a bush blooms, it looks incredibly decorative and attractive, which is also worth paying attention to when choosing a particular blackberry variety.
Early varieties of thornless blackberry
Early blackberry varieties without thorns, which are also noteworthy, we will consider further. One of the first varieties is a blackberry called Natchez, which is already described above. Let's just remind that the harvest ripens quickly enough - the berries can be enjoyed around mid-June. In warmer climatic conditions, this variety ripens much earlier, so it is worth navigating in terms of the climatic and temperature conditions.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Karak black
This is the second early ripening variety, which is distinguished by its large-fruited, thornlessness and taste characteristics.One berry can reach a weight of ten grams, and there are even larger specimens that simply boggle the imagination.
The shoots of the variety spread, it is very easy and simple to care for the planting, and you can also cover the tree for the winter, in case the frost suddenly becomes unbearable. But more experienced gardeners say that it is recommended to install trellises so that the bush develops in accordance with all the norms and rules of agricultural technology, otherwise the likelihood of developing diseases is high.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Columbia Starr
This is a bush blackberry, the shoots are absolutely smooth, not a single thorn can be found. The berries are very large, usually their shape is a cone, they look very elegant and attractive. The weight of one berry can be thirteen grams - a colossal indicator that attracts attention.
The yield is at a high level, the fruits are remarkably stored, they can also be transported over long distances, they react absolutely calmly to such conditions. They can also be frozen or stored for a couple of weeks in containers in the refrigerator - they do not lose their useful qualities or taste.
At the same time, the plant has a high level of immunity, it perfectly tolerates diseases or attacks from pests.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Lokhtey
This variety was bred by the British, it is distinguished by its unpretentiousness, non-capriciousness in caring measures and to the conditions in which the bushes grow. The fruits do not grow very large, while they have high taste and characteristics, due to which the variety is popular.
From one bush, you can collect an average of a couple of buckets of fruit - you must agree, this is a decent result. The berries of the variety turn out to be a little smaller, but at the same time they are really very tasty and attractive, versatile, since they can be eaten fresh, or you can make jams, preserves, drinks and wines from them.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Asterina
Asterina Is a blackberry variety that was bred by Swiss breeders. She already has an international patent as one of the most significant and interesting varieties, which really deserves a lot of attention.
This variety was obtained by crossing several other blackberry varieties - Loch Ness and Chester Thornless. Thanks to the professional experience and knowledge of breeders from Switzerland, at one time a large number of new products appeared that are really of interest to many gardeners around the world.
Of course, it is worth mentioning some of the botanical features of this variety, as they are, and it is due to them that this variety differs from all the others. These botanical features are as follows:
- the bush is very short, perennial, grows mostly straight, is not too lush or spreading, which is its undoubted advantage, since in this case it is much easier to care for it;
- the leaves are painted fresh green, there are large notches along the edges;
- the flowers are quite large, painted white, very beautiful, and because of them the bushes look quite decorative and interesting;
- the fruits are dense, black. They can be rounded, or they can be slightly elongated;
- the brushes are directed upwards, a large number of berries are formed on them, while the brushes are neat, not drooping, interesting.
The Asterina variety is an early ripening variety, the yield is also quite abundant, which distinguishes this variety from all others. The plant has high immunity and resistance to stress. Suitable for growing even in very hot climates.
The berries, when they reach maturity, become very large, the weight of one berry can vary from seven to fifteen grams. The berries are incredibly sweet to the taste. Even if they have not reached their full maturity, they are still very pleasant to consume fresh.
The taste is dessert, there is a sour note, but quite insignificant, and some do not even pay any attention to it. The pulp is very firm, juicy and very sweet, the aroma from the blackberry comes out rich, typical and blackberry. The berries are excellent for long-distance transportation. And also they can be stored for a long time, they will not lose their taste and useful properties and qualities.
Blackberry besshornaya - winter-hardy varieties
Of course, one cannot fail to say about some winter-hardy blackberry varieties. Today, this characteristic is incredibly important precisely due to the fact that in some regions of our country, not the most favorable and harsh climate is established, and plants of some varieties may not withstand a sharp drop in temperatures.
As a result, the plantings freeze over, become weakened, so it is worth monitoring the characteristics of the varieties. And in very harsh conditions, select either more resistant varieties, or make sure that with the onset of frost, they will be sheltered from gusts of wind, frost and snow cover.
The frost-resistant blackberry varieties include the following:
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Polar
This variety perfectly tolerates frosts and temperatures down to -30 degrees. At the same time, the bushes do not need to be covered at all for the winter, they do well without it and can withstand cold and frost.
Up to six kilograms of tasty fruits can be harvested from one bush, but it should also be borne in mind that this can be achieved only if the gardener complies with agricultural techniques and all the requirements for caring for this variety.
The shape of the fruits is oval, slightly elongated, and the fruits themselves are painted in a deep black shade. The shoots grow straight up, there are absolutely no thorns on them, so it is quite convenient to care for them - it is enough to periodically shape them. Shoots can reach a height of 2.5 meters, but they can be shortened so that it is convenient to collect fruits and control the growth and development of the shrub itself.
Blackberry thornless grade Thornless
One of the most frost-resistant varieties, which also perfectly tolerates temperatures down to -35 degrees, completely unresponsive to these stimuli. Same this blackberry does not perceive most of the diseases at all, and such resistance is exclusively for her benefit.
Of course, it should be borne in mind that the plant has some care needs, but even that gardener who, in fact, does not have such a rich store of knowledge as he could have, can cope with it.
After picking, the berries keep their shape perfectly, and also do not deteriorate and their external characteristics, vitamin and nutritional properties do not disappear anywhere. Blossoming of blackberries occurs in mid-June; by the beginning of August, the gardener can collect the first ripe berries.
The average yield is up to twenty berries from one bush. The most important thing is to take into account that all this will come true only if the plantings are maintained in the correct microclimate, and the gardener can keep the plant in the most favorable conditions.
Blackberry thornless grade Oregon
Perfect for growing in the Urals and Siberia, without fear for the state of planting, since the variety tolerates frost well. Berries in weight can reach five to seven grams, their taste is sweet, but with a very bright pronounced sourness.
Blackberry bush Oregon spreads, the yield from one bush is about ten kilograms. At the same time, this plant is good in care, and gardeners who do not have much experience also cope with agricultural technology.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Rushai
A thornless variety that was bred by Polish breeders. The variety has a high level of frost resistance. The bush grows straight up, the yield is very high, and the main advantage of the variety is that the transportation of the berries is just excellent, and this indicator is not inferior to the indicators that are given on an industrial scale.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Agavam
This variety is considered one of the most popular and demanded among many other plantings. In particular, this thornless variety stands out against the background of the fact that it is frost-resistant, and is able to withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees.
The yield per bush is relatively small, ranging from four to five kilograms. At the same time, it is worth paying attention to the fact that this bush can bear fruit even in those areas that were left without special attention from the gardener, located even in abandoned areas.
The berries are dark black and give off a pleasant berry aroma. Taste - sweet and sour, the taste is quite balanced, even despite the sourness.
Repaired studless blackberry - varieties
Repaired blackberry varieties, on the shoots of which do not have thorns, can bear fruit twice a year. For this trait, these varieties are so valued among gardeners and truck farmers. Therefore, there is always a demand for such varieties, and therefore it will always be interesting for breeders to develop new varieties and varieties.
Unfortunately, it is worth noting that today there is only one studless remontant variety, but agronomists are still working on this issue.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Prime Arc Freedom
Blackberry variety Prime Arc Freedom was withdrawn quite recently - in 2013. It has a fairly early ripening period, which is also its advantage. The bush grows strictly vertically, but at the same time it is short and compact in size. The berries are tied very large, long, the weight of one berry reaches fifteen grams. This variety can become a leader among other thornless blackberry varieties.
At the same time, it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the variety is very resistant to attacks from pests, and also has a fairly high immunity, therefore, in general, this plant does not succumb to diseases.
In California, this remontant variety is very popular, and it is grown mainly on an industrial scale, since all the positive properties and characteristics of planting are taken into account, which in no case can be ignored.
New blackberry varieties without thorns
There are also several new studless varieties that have not yet been fully explored, but have already begun to gain some popularity among gardeners and agronomists. The breeders themselves also do not stop there - they continue to develop new varieties that could surprise with both their external characteristics and taste characteristics.
Consider a few of these varieties that are really of interest to gardeners:
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Auchita
Bred by American breeders. The berries are distinguished by excellent taste characteristics, and also a very pleasant aroma emanates from them. Ripening period - average, bushless bush, resistant to external influences, practically not susceptible to diseases or attacks from pests, which is also its advantage.
Blackberry besshipnaya Ufa local
This variety belongs to the works of domestic breeders. It is one of the closest relatives of the Agavama variety, but at the same time its parameters of yield and frost resistance are much higher than those of a relative.Otherwise, it is a relatively unpretentious variety that attracts a lot of attention and is appreciated for its positive characteristics.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Triple Crown
Another studless variety, which in other words, translated into Russian, is called the Triple Crown. This variety is semi-erect, shoots can reach a height of about three meters, the yield from one bush is about thirteen kilograms, if you follow all the rules and regulations of agricultural technology.
When the fruits are transported from place to place, they do not wrinkle at all, do not flow, do not lose their positive characteristics and qualities, and this is their excellent quality.
Doyle's BlackBerry
This variety considered one of the newest and least studied. One way or another, it is known that this variety perfectly tolerates drought stages, it also does not tolerate frosts very well, and therefore, with their onset, the plant needs additional shelter and care.
But at the same time, if you follow agricultural techniques, then nevertheless this plant may turn out to be one of the most productive - up to 25 kilograms of berries are harvested from a bush per season, which are distinguished by excellent external and taste qualities.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Arapakho
It was created about twenty years ago, and since then has remained one of the most popular and demanded. This variety differs in very early ripening periods, as well as in the fact that very large fruits are formed on the bushes. The berries are juicy, medium in size, the shape of the berries is conical.
Of course, this sort has already managed to become very popular, since it has existed for many years, and for many years it was studied, cultivated, which made it incredibly popular and in demand and, of course, very beloved.
Of course, the best varieties can be very different, especially when you consider in which territories and in which regions they grow. Nevertheless, it is worth paying attention to the more optimal, universal varieties, which are quite in demand almost everywhere, wherever they grow and develop.
The most optimal varieties of thornless blackberries
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Helen
Helen variety - hybrid, was bred by English gardeners, the shoots of the variety are very short, capable of spreading, but the shoots are formed very little. The fruits reach a weight of eight grams, their taste is rather unusual - there is more of a cherry aftertaste than a blackberry or even raspberry one. At the same time, the berries are very tender and juicy, really worthy of attention from gardeners.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Osage
This variety has long been recognized as one of the most popular and delicious. It is almost impossible to eat berries, they are so tasty and attractive and, moreover, versatile, since they can be eaten fresh, and you can cook a huge number of dishes from them. In addition, the fruits can be transported over long distances, which makes this variety quite popular and beloved.
Blackberry besshipny Brzezina
Blackberry variety Brzezina, bred by Polish breeders, it differs in that the ripening dates of the berries are super early. At the same time, the variety has a very high immunity and resistance to stress, it very rarely suffers from any diseases and is very rarely attacked by pests. Also, this crop can withstand a moderate level of frost, which also makes it very attractive.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Orcan
This variety practically does not get sick, the berries are in the form of small cylinders, large and very large in size, for which gardeners are very fond of them. The fruits of this crop are distinguished by the fact that they emit an attractive floral aroma, which is not typical for the crops of this family. The berries ripen in August; it is recommended to cover this variety for the winter so that it endures this difficult period well, so that the shoots and branches do not get frostbitten.
Blackberry besshipnaya grade Thornless evergreen
An evergreen bush that was bred by American breeders. Shoots are flexible, they can spread quietly, and it is convenient to care for them. One of the most demanded varieties.
Its fruits are very sweet and have a dessert taste. At the same time, sometimes they can be very sugary, which means that they are far from suitable for preparing completely different dishes, desserts, drinks. So it is worth adding this berry to other berry mixtures so that in this case the result is the most suitable.
Planting a thornless blackberry
The studless varieties have some features and subtleties in planting and subsequent care. First of all, it is very important to take care of the right place for planting the plant, and also take into account that it is recommended to plant blackberries either in spring or in autumn. Everything will depend on what level of frost resistance the selected variety has, and it will already be based on this characteristic.
In the fall, it is recommended to plant those varieties that freely tolerate too severe winter frosts, and which are not threatened by overfrost and frostbite of shoots and branches.
Plot for planting, it must be well lit, few varieties of this species can tolerate shade normally, so lighting should be taken care of in advance. Also, do not plant bushes in too windy places and in drafts, as this will lead to the fact that they will inhibit development, and as a result, the plant will lose its strength and vitality.
Soil mixture made from peat and black earth, which are thoroughly mixed so that there are no layers. Part of the mixture is laid out on top, directly on the drainage layer (it consists of pebbles, expanded clay, broken brick), then a seedling is installed, and the space is filled up with the rest of the nutrient mixture on top.
After planting, the bush must be watered with warm, settled water, and the trunk circle is covered with a layer of mulch. It is necessary so that moisture evaporates more slowly, so that the necessary heat is retained in the soil, and to protect the plant from pests and bacteria.
How to propagate a studless blackberry
Let's talk a little about how you can propagate thornless blackberry bushes. Experienced gardeners know several ways at once, but each assumes some subtleties and rules that should not be ignored.
In fact, these rules are simple, which means that any gardener can cope with reproduction, even one who does not have so much experience and knowledge in this matter. There are methods such as propagation by seeds, layering, offspring and cuttings.
The easiest way is to propagate using cuttings, as well as thornless layering, since there is a greater likelihood that the planting materials will take root and give good results in maintaining the characteristics of the mother shrubs.
Propagation by cuttings
If we talk about propagation by cuttings, then the cuttings should be of very high quality - their length is from six to nine centimeters, and their thickness is about one centimeter. In November, the bush is dug in and cut into cuttings, after which the bush is carefully dug back, without disturbing agricultural technology.
In order to store cut cuttings, you need to place them in a cool place (for example, in the refrigerator), and keep them in a plastic bag at a temperature no more than five degrees above zero.
At the end of February, the cuttings are pulled out and planted in soil mixture in order to grow to the required size, and only then placed in a permanent place for growth and development. It is important to remember that sometimes propagation by cuttings leads to the formation of thorns on new bushes.
Growing blackberries without thorns
In order for the harvest to be richer, you must always monitor the state of priming. The first one and a half to two years of the row spacing must be sown with green manure, which is excellent as a fertilizer. You can also sow not only green manure, but also some row crops.
All other years of the row spacing are best kept under black steam, without sowing any other components in those areas. Plants are weeded as the site is overgrown with weeds and vegetation. It is also necessary to loosen the soil between the rows, and do this from five to six times a year, the depth of loosening is from ten to twelve centimeters.
It is also worth loosing the soil around the plant with a pitchfork, you can carefully hoe it to weed the area and loosen the soil as rarely as possible, it is recommended to cover the area with mulch. Sawdust, fallen leaves, straw, needles, compost, peat are perfect as mulch.
You can also fill in rotted manure or peat. Such mulch will not only reduce the number of weeding and loosening, but also will saturate the soil with nutrients and components.
Agricultural technology also includes watering, fertilizing, reproduction, pruning. If the gardener is ready to comply with all these conditions, then in return he will receive wonderful and very high quality, fruitful plantings that will definitely not disappoint him.
In general, the thornless blackberry is completely unpretentious and not so capricious, so even if the gardener makes mistakes in planting, in care, the plant will withstand these mistakes if they are not fatal. Due to the fact that there are absolutely no thorns on the bushes, this makes the process of leaving even easier.
When growing, thornless varieties require the most moist soil possible, but waterlogging is not quite what this planting needs.
Optimally drip watering and be guided by what kind of weather is developing in the area. Only younger seedlings should be watered about 2-3 times a week, but the bush at the time of ripening and in severe drought should also receive enough moisture.
Thornless blackberries are not capable of tolerating droughts in all manifestations, so it is worth focusing on which variety and to what level of drought tolerance the plant belongs to, and then plan watering. So that the soil is not waterlogged, and so that moisture does not stagnate in the upper soil layer, it is imperative loosen soil after each watering.
In the first year after planting the plant in open ground feed it's not worth it. Many varieties in general can be fed with, as their immunity is high enough to cope with some deviations or instability in the climate.
But in order to regulate the yield, to increase it, it is still worth using top dressing of organic origin, including humus and compost, which is calculated based on the number of shrubs and their age.
Also, when the fruits are ripe, potassium supplements can be added to make the bush feel comfortable, and so that the fruits are richer and larger. It is worth saying that if you apply top dressing in accordance with the norms, then they do not in any way affect the chemical vitamin composition of the berries - they are completely safe for humans.
It is important for the gardener to remember that bushes are recommended trim. The main pruning usually occurs in the fall. It begins when the bush gradually prepares for winter and frost. In the fall, it is worth cutting off all the shoots, you can leave only up to eight thornless shoots, which next year will become the basis for growth and, accordingly, for fruiting.
It is also worth cutting off the shoots that bore fruit in the current season - they will not bear fruit the second time.If you do not cut off the branches, then the thornless blackberry will grow very quickly, the crown will thicken. It will not be easy to care for the plant, to harvest in the future, and, most importantly, pathogenic bacteria can develop in the dense crown.
Diseases and pests
If suddenly the buds on the bush turn black or dry, then the plant needs intervention and salvation. This will indicate that some kind of disease has begun to develop, or the plant simply does not have enough nutrients, and it is urgent to restore the balance.
For example, this may indicate that the planting needs calcium. In this case, the gardener introduces organic matter, and can also add some superphosphate directly to the soil. Next, he monitors whether the condition of the plant improves, whether its appearance changes.
The thornless blackberry also requires not only standard care, but also needs the gardener to regularly take measures to prevent common diseases and protect the plant from pests.
Among the diseases, it is worth highlighting such diseases as:
- rust Is a fungus that can begin in summer and infect the plant before late autumn. Moreover, if the disease is not detected in time, then the probability is high that the bush will soon die;
- gray rot - can affect different parts of the plant - leaves, shoots, buds, berries themselves. But most of all, berries that were removed at the wrong time suffer from gray rot. Because of this, the entire crop may be affected, since the fungus moves at a tremendous speed;
- white spot - usually this disease appears with high humidity and during the period of prolonged rains and precipitation;
- anthracnose - this disease is considered the most common;
- mosaic - affects the leafy part, and accordingly it is on the leaves and from them that you can understand that something is wrong with the plant. In addition, the mosaic can have a negative impact on the frost resistance of the bush.
As preventive measures, you can use sanitary pruning of the bush and its treatment with drugs that are just intended to fight diseases - a herbicidal or fungicidal group.
All trimmed shoots and removed affected parts of the plant should be immediately removed from the site and burned outside of it so that bacteria and fungal spores do not infect healthy parts of the plant and other plantings.
Concerning pests then usually these are spider mites and aphids, men and moths, which can be controlled with insecticide treatments, as well as constant inspection of plants for diseases and pests.
Conclusion
Of course, today many gardeners have fallen in love with thornless varieties, and we cannot but pay attention to the fact that they really remain favorites among all other fruit and berry plantings.
The thornless blackberry is a berry that is distinguished by useful properties and characteristics, so it should always be borne in mind that fruiting is a reflection of the very attitude of the gardener to his planting. It is recommended to withstand all the requirements of the plant, take care of it, follow all the rules of agricultural technology, so that the planting turns out to be of high quality, strong, and very healthy.