- Preparation: Prepare the soil by digging it over and incorporating organic matter like compost or soil conditioner. Well rotted manure also makes a good mulch in the summer.
-Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth they were growing in the container or as recommended on the plant label.
Ongoing Care;
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Deep watering once or twice a week is better than frequent shallow watering everyday. Try to water in the morning or evening and to water the soil not the foliage.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch (like wood chips or straw) around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, keeping roots cool in the summer and warmer over winter.
- Pruning: Different plants have different pruning requirements. Research the specific needs of your chosen varieties.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate action.
Specific Tips for Common Soft Fruits:
- Strawberries: Plant in raised beds or use straw mulch to keep the berries off the soil.
- Raspberries: Provide support with trellises or stakes to prevent canes from flopping over.
- Blueberries: Plant in acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5). Apply a slow release Ericaceous feed to the compopst mix in spring and autumn.
- Currants and Gooseberries: Prune regularly to maintain productivity. They fruit on old growth so you can prune back nerw growth to keep plants small. open out the centre of the plant to help with air flow, sun to ripen fruits and also ease of harvesting fruit.