Home Garden

What Is the Best Soil PH for Blackberry Plants?

Blackberry vines, or brambles (Rubus spp.), can produce fruit for the gardener for 10 to 25 years. If you want to ensure that they perform at their best, be sure to give them the necessary soil requirements.
  1. Best Soil pH

    • Blackberry brambles perform their best in soils that have a pH of 5.6 through 6.2, which falls on the acidic side. If the area where the blackberries are to be planted is too acidic, generous amounts of limestone may need to be added in order to reach the correct pH levels.

    Soil Texture

    • The Rubus family prefers well-drained, sandy-loam soils that contain high organic content. This can be added through leaf mold, compost and composted manures.

    Fertilizing Blackberry Brambles

    • Blackberries don't need a lot of fertilizing, but they do appreciate a balanced fertilizer in the early spring at about the middle of April.

    Considerations

    • It can take a couple of years to reach optimal soil pH levels for a big blackberry production. However, for the average gardening enthusiast, these brambles will grow in nearly any soil as long as the drainage is sufficient.

    High Price Tag

    • Blackberries, as well as raspberries and blueberries, are expensive in grocery store not because they are hard to grow, but because they are difficult to ship.