Planting small fruits

Where to plant them?

To plant these soft fruit bushes, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot, sheltered from strong winds.

Some species, such as raspberries and blackberries, will need to be trained on a support. Other species, like redcurrants or blackcurrants, have a semi-shrubby habit and can be used to create a delicious hedge in the garden or along the vegetable patch.

Blueberries can be incorporated into an acidic soil bed alongside rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas or heathers. Finally, note that container growing is possible for most soft fruits (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries…), allowing you to enjoy summer flavours on a terrace or balcony.

It’s often preferable to plant at least two young plants to encourage fruiting.

In what soil?

Small fruits require rich, light, and well-drained soil. Enrich garden soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Some plants thrive in acidophilous soils, such as blueberry bushes and cranberries. In this case, mix heather soil or turf into the garden soil.

When and how to plant young plants?

When to Plant Small Fruits?

Planting is ideally done in autumn, especially for young plants with naked roots. Container-grown young plants can be planted year-round except during periods of extreme heat or frost, but watering should be increased in spring to ensure proper establishment.

How to Plant Small Fruits?

Soak the root ball in water for a few moments before planting or coat the roots if it’s a young plant with naked roots. Dig a hole (3 times the volume of the root ball), place the young plant and cover with soil. Firm well and water.

Young blueberry plantation

How to care for them properly?

Install a mulch at the base of your bushes. Apply some compost or potting soil every spring, taking care not to damage the roots. You may sometimes need to install a bird protection net, particularly over strawberry plants. Easy to grow, small fruits are generally not very susceptible to diseases. Prune if necessary, respecting each species’ requirements.