Description

Full sun, zone 3b/4

Rubus fruticosus ‘Chester’

Pot size: #1, #2

Considered to be one of the most winter hardy and thornless varieties available. Chester produces large, very sweet, high quality berries that are juicy and have great flavour. Excellent fresh and for use in jams, jellies and baking.

Choose a sunny site in your garden with good air circulation and water drainage and a pH of 6.0-7.0. Keep roots moist until planting. Work plenty of organic matter into the soil and mulch to keep out weeds. Plant as soon as the soil has warmed. Dig a hole large enough so as not to bend roots. Trim canes to encourage new growth. Plants should be set out at least 2 feet apart in rows 7 feet apart. Trellising is beneficial for cane support. These summer-bearing berries produce fruit on second year canes (floricanes).

Canes should be laid down in the fall, so that they are below the snow line. Cover with wood chips or mulch for additional protection.