Raspberries

Raspberries can be used in a variety of appealing ways. Freshly prepared and sugared raspberries are excellent when served alone or used to make a raspberry sundae. The fruit can also be used to make delicious jams, jellies, pies, and other desserts. Besides their excellent flavor, raspberries are a nutritious food, contributing vitamins A and C and various minerals to the diet. In addition, raspberries contain a natural substance called ellagic acid, which is an anti-carcinogenic (cancer-preventing) compound. Raspberries ripen shortly after strawberries and make an excellent small fruit crop for summer and fall depending on the cultivars selected.

Two years are required to establish a raspberry planting, but once established, the planting can remain productive for several years if given good care. Raspberries may be classified by fruit color and/or fruiting habit. They may be red, black, purple, or yellow-fruited types. The black raspberry is one of the most popular. The red type is the second most popular type. The red raspberry is first to ripen, followed by the black, purple, and yellow cultivars.

Planting Care for Blackberry and Raspberry.
All blackberry and raspberry plants are self-fertile and will have good fruit production on their own. However, if a second variety is planted nearby, they will have heavier fruit production.