Tips and resources for farmers and gardeners
Taking Care of Raspberry Plants in Fall
Taking good care of raspberries in the fall is important for future productivity of the patch, according to University of Illinois Extension local foods/small farms educator Maurice Ogutu.
"Avoid overfertilizing and supplemental watering of summer-bearing red and black raspberries in the fall so that the canes can start hardening off. Fall-bearing raspberries can benefit from supplemental water in dry weather in order to maintain quality and size of the fruit.
"Mole traps and baits must be placed in the active runs to be most effective. That makes good scouting essential," said Menjoulet.
To find active mole runs, Menjoulet recommends poking a hole through the top of the run. Mark the location with a flag a few inches to the side of the run or by using a landmark that is memorable.
In about 2 hours, check the run and if the hole is repaired or plugged back up, the run is active and will be a good location for baits and traps.
Scout the plants for crown borers. The borer adult is a moth that looks like a yellowjacket.
"Check wilting canes to see if they are damaged by crown borer and determine if a crown borer larva is present in the crown. If so, remove the infected plants. If the roots of the wilted canes are dark red in color, they have been attacked by phytophthora crown rot.
"Rogue the infected canes and eliminate wild brambles growing near the patch."
Maurice Ogutu, 815-235-4125
Berry Grower's Companion
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