Allotments 4 All

 Hi All, :D
              I am expecting my first crop of raspberries from the glen ample variety that were planted the autumn  before last . Around each cane are at least a dozen new canes sprouting , approx 6 inches tall, I know that i need to prune some of these out to leave approximately 5 for next year, but when should I do this  ???  There seems so many that I am tempted to  prune some out now.

                                    Adrian.

This will be year 2 for your canes so cut out all the weak ones early next month when you're sure to recognise the stronger ones. Pull up any that are growing away from where you want them. Aim to leave 8-10 canes per stool. Make sure you train the canes as you want them or you'll end up with a right mess!

 Hi Ken, :D
                Thanks for that info , I didn`t realize that I should leave as many canes for next year,  even more lovely raspberries :o

                                      Adrian.

Adrian,

On how many to leave, I think the answer is to make sure there is a gap between the canes otherwise disease gets in there. 4"-5" apart will ensure a good free flow of air and let the sun in. The normal advice is to prune just after fruiting is complete - take the old canes down to about 6" and select next year's. As Ken says, get rid of the weak new growths first, then thin the remainder for separation.

When you do prune, rember you are cutting away part of the plants food supply, so give them a good helping of compost, FYM or a balanced fertiliser (blood, fish and bone)

Phil