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Boysenberry Plants, Boysenberry
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Boysenberry Plants, Boysenberry
Description
(Rubus ursinus x ideaus) Your order contains 2 plants. These big, sweet berries are ideal for eating straight from the mostly-thornless plants and make fantastic jam, pies, and cobblers. Boysenberry is a fabulous potpourri of America’s favorite berries, created by horticulturist Rudolph Boysen in 1923 from a cross of the European raspberry (Rubus idaeus), the European blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), American dewberry (Rubus aboriginum), and loganberry (Rubus x loganobaccus).
Boysen moved to Anaheim in the early 1920s to work in the city park and eventually became superintendent of the park system, a post he held until his death in 1950. In 1927, he advertised his hybridized berry as “the sensation of the 20th century.” But after a serious accident, Boysen was forced to abandon his vines. Walter Knott (of Knott’s Berry Farm fame) acquired some clippings, named the berry for Boysen, and the rest is history.
Boysenberry was immensely popular until the 1960s, when it fell out of favor because of its fragile fruit, ill-suited for shipping, and its finicky growing habit. Fortunately for us, continuous improvements have resulted in much hardier, and disease-resistant plants! Breeding hasn’t sacrificed flavor, though; the fruit is still as delicious and delicate as the original.
- Perennial in USDA Zones 5-10
- Days to harvest: 150-180 days
- Hours of full to partial sun: 6-8 hours
- Planting depth: 2-3 inches
- Plant spacing: 36 to 48 inches
- Ideal temperature: 70°F to 85°F
- Frost hardy? Yes (tolerates light frost)
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
These boysenberries prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. They benefit from regular pruning to remove dead canes and maintain shape. Using a trellis system or supporting the vines can help keep the fruit off the ground, reducing the risk of pests and improving air circulation. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds
When to Grow
Boysenberries should be planted in early spring after the last frost, once the soil has warmed. This timing gives the plants ample time to establish roots and produce fruit in late summer to early fall. Fall planting is also possible in milder climates, as long as the plants can root before the cold sets in. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’
How to Sow and Plant
Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball, ensuring the crown of the plant is slightly above soil level. Fill the hole with a mixture of native soil and compost, pressing down gently to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting, ensuring the roots settle and the soil is moist but not soggy.
How to Grow
Boysenberries need consistent moisture to thrive but dislike soggy soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Prune the canes each year to remove old growth and allow new, productive canes to emerge. Provide support through a trellis or fence to keep the vines upright.
How to Save
- Propagate Boysenberries by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
- Cut healthy stems into 6-inch sections, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cuttings in a moist, well-draining medium and keep them in a warm, bright spot until roots form, usually in 4-6 weeks.
FAQ
Do Boysenberries require a pollinator?
No, Boysenberries are self-pollinating, meaning a single plant can produce fruit without another for cross-pollination. However, planting multiple plants can improve yields by encouraging better pollination and larger fruit clusters.
How do I prevent pests from damaging my Boysenberries?
To protect Boysenberries from pests like aphids or spider mites, use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation, and remove any affected leaves or canes to prevent the spread of pests.
When should I prune my Boysenberries?
Prune Boysenberries in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove dead, weak, or old canes to promote the growth of healthy, new shoots that will bear fruit. Regular pruning encourages a tidy, productive plant and improves air circulation.
