How to Transplant Blackberries

Choose a location for planting. According to Barbara Damrosch in "The Garden Primer," the best location for a blackberry patch is a sloping, sunny hillside where cold air drains easily. Sunny locations provide better yields.

Test the soil. According to Oregon State University, blackberries thrive in any soil type as long as there is proper drainage. Add a generous amount of organic matter to the soil, which increases the ability of the soil to hold moisture. If the soil tests low for phosphorus, add bonemeal or rock phosphate. If the soil tests low for potassium and trace minerals, add greensand. Look for a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.

Establish planting rows approximately 2 feet wide. Remove all weeds, rocks and obstacles from the rows.

Soak the root systems of bare root transplants in water for at least an hour before planting.

Dig shallow holes at a spacing of 2 to 3 feet apart in the planting row. Prune any damage areas from the roots of the plant.

Spread the roots, setting it at the same depth it was previously planted. Cover the roots with soil.

Press down firmly around the transplant to remove any air pockets from the soil. Water thoroughly.

Cut the canes so that they are 3 to 6 inches tall. This relieves excessive stress on the new transplant.