How to Train Red Raspberries

Dig one hole at each end of the row of raspberry plants with a shovel. Position the holes at the center of each end and dig to a depth of 1 foot. The holes should be spaced 25 to 30 feet apart for proper support.

Place a 5-foot-long pole in the center of one hole. Scoop a layer of loose dirt into the hole around the pole and use your foot or the end of the shovel to tamp it down firmly. Continue to add dirt and pack it into place until the hole is completely filled and the pole is secure. Repeat this process with the hole on the opposite end.

Position one 18-to 24-inch-long board crosswise against an end post. The center of the board should be three feet from the ground. Use a hammer and nail to secure the board in place. Add additional nails to secure the board from moving, and attach a second wooden board to the opposite post in this same manner.

String a wire between the right sides of the crossbars at either end of the row, and wrap the ends of the wires around the crossbars to tighten its length. Secure the ends with metal staples or nails, and string a second wire on the other side of the raspberry row between the left sides of the crossbars at each end. Pull the wire tight and secure the ends.

Tuck any loose canes inside the wires by gently bending them under the wire. The wire sides of the trellis will contain the red raspberry canes, and support them from falling over with the weight of the fruit. Train the old canes from the plants as soon as they finish fruiting to make room for new canes to grow inside the trellis.