Growing Raspberries
(continued- page 3)

Autumn fruiting raspberries are very versatile because as well as pruning in the traditional manner in February, you can also have an earlier crop in early summer if you prune only the top 10 cm (6 in) from some of the canes. These canes will give a much earlier crop but at the same time allow the traditionally pruned canes to push through and crop in autumn.

The plants need a ready supply of water to produce good fruits. Depending on the soil type, watering throughout the summer on a weekly basis may well be needed. All raspberries will appreciate a layer of well rotted compost being applied to the soil in February each year. Because raspberry roots are very near the surface, do not dig the compost into the soil - this will damage the roots. In the absence of compost, scatter a handful of bone meal to each square metre (3ft). 

Raspberry Picking or Harvesting
Raspberries which have been picked do not store well at all - they will only last a day or so. They are also easily damaged during picking and in storage. The best solution is to pick them on the day they are required and do not let them be crushed by their own weight. The fruit does not all ripen at the same time, so harvesting can take place over several weeks. 

Raspberries freeze very well. Initially freeze them spread out on a plate or dish to stop them all freezing into a mass. When frozen they can be put in plastic bags or containers and stored in the freezer for a couple of months.