Troubleshooting
Boysenberry problems — and how to fix them
Boysenberry (Rubus ursinus × idaeus 'Boysenberry') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
No fruit on new canes
Boysenberries fruit on second-year floricanes, not the current season's growth. Cutting all canes down removes next year's crop; only remove canes that have already fruited.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Soft berries rot quickly in damp, crowded conditions. Train canes openly on wires for airflow, water at the base not overhead, and pick ripe fruit promptly.
Cane and crown weakness in hard winters
Canes can be damaged in severe cold. In cold areas protect canes over winter or untie and mulch the crown; choose a sheltered site to avoid wind and frost damage.
Birds taking the crop
Birds strip ripe berries fast. Net plants as the fruit begins to colour to secure the harvest, and pick frequently once ripening starts.
Prevent boysenberry problems before they start
Most boysenberry issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for boysenberry in general rather than its problems? Read the full boysenberry care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Boysenberry problems — FAQ
Why is my boysenberry no fruit on new canes?
Boysenberries fruit on second-year floricanes, not the current season's growth. Cutting all canes down removes next year's crop; only remove canes that have already fruited.
Why is my boysenberry botrytis (grey mould)?
Soft berries rot quickly in damp, crowded conditions. Train canes openly on wires for airflow, water at the base not overhead, and pick ripe fruit promptly.
Why is my boysenberry cane and crown weakness in hard winters?
Canes can be damaged in severe cold. In cold areas protect canes over winter or untie and mulch the crown; choose a sheltered site to avoid wind and frost damage.
Why is my boysenberry birds taking the crop?
Birds strip ripe berries fast. Net plants as the fruit begins to colour to secure the harvest, and pick frequently once ripening starts.