|
Choose a sheltered, sunny spot. Plant bare-rooted
canes in October or November. Dig a hole wide enough for the roots
to spread out. Pull off any suckers and cut off any branches less
than 6 inches above the old soil mark. Cut back all branches to half
their length. Replace the soil ensuring the old soil mark is level
with the surface. Water well. Container-grown plants can be planted
at any time. |
In October take 12 inch cuttings from this years
wood. Make a sloping cut at the top and straight cut at the bottom.
Remove buds along the lower part of the cutting leaving four buds at
the top and the lowest bud 2 inches above the surface. Cut v-shaped
trench and add sand to the bottom. Insert 6 inches apart. Replace
the soil. Plant on the following October. |
During November to March cut back by half the new
growth produced this year. Reduce side shoots to about 2 inches. Cut
out dead or diseased branches. Thin out the centre. |
Will grow
in any soil type. A month before planting remove all weeds, add
well-rotted manure or compost. |
Apply a
general fertiliser in March and then mulch. |
Water regularly during the first season and keep the
soil moist while the fruit is swelling. |
For
cooking pick small green fruits during late May. For eating leave
until the fruits are fully coloured and soft. |
Eat as
soon as possible but can be kept in a fridge for 2 weeks. |
