Raspberry Violette - Rubus idaeus

The Violet Raspberry prefers humus-bearing, rich, soft, and deep soils, retaining moisture, even in summer, without too much limestone. It appreciates semi-shaded but bright exposures. North of the Loire, it will tolerate the sun well, while in the south, it will prefer partial shade. Plant it from October to March, in ordinary soil enriched with compost and well-rotted manure.

Plant the young plants every 80 cm in rows spaced 1.50 m apart. During planting, the collar should be level with the ground. It is advisable to train them with wire stretched between stakes or on a trellis.

Water regularly to promote root development in the first year after planting. During periods of high heat or prolonged drought, provide additional water. Hoe the surface especially at the beginning of planting and apply mulch to retain moisture in summer.

The Raspberry can be susceptible to various diseases if the growing conditions are not optimal (raspberry anthracnose, raspberry rust, powdery mildew, gray mold in rainy periods, or Botrytis). Damage observed in cultivation is due to poor weather conditions, especially during cold springs that allow microfungi present in the soil to infest the vegetation. To protect the plants, it is recommended to feed the raspberries with organic fertilizers promoting the growth of anaerobic bacteria in the soil, which enhances the soil's ability to boost the plants' immune system. Raspberries can also be attacked by certain parasites such as the raspberry worm, the larva of a small beetle that lodges in the fruits without causing significant damage.

Raspberries multiply easily through suckers that grow near the base: remove them and replant them elsewhere in the garden if desired.