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Pruning guide

How to prune black raspberry

Best time
Early summer (tip-pruning new canes); late summer (remove fruited canes); late winter (thinning laterals)
How often
Annually — three brief interventions across the growing year
Technique
When new primocanes reach 24–30 in (60–75 cm), pinch or cut the tip to force 3–5 side branches. After the second-year canes fruit, cut them to ground level. In late winter, shorten side laterals to 8–12 in and thin weak canes.

More black raspberry care

Pruning black raspberry — FAQ

When should I prune black raspberry?

Early summer (tip-pruning new canes); late summer (remove fruited canes); late winter (thinning laterals). When new primocanes reach 24–30 in (60–75 cm), pinch or cut the tip to force 3–5 side branches. After the second-year canes fruit, cut them to ground level. In late winter, shorten side laterals to 8–12 in and thin weak canes.

How often does black raspberry need pruning?

Annually — three brief interventions across the growing year. Black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis) produces on two-year-old canes and benefits from a two-stage pruning system. Summer tip-pruning at 24–30 in encourages branching for next year's crop. After harvest, remove all fruited canes to the ground. Late-winter thinning keeps the stool open and air-circulating.

How do you prune black raspberry?

When new primocanes reach 24–30 in (60–75 cm), pinch or cut the tip to force 3–5 side branches. After the second-year canes fruit, cut them to ground level. In late winter, shorten side laterals to 8–12 in and thin weak canes.