Should raspberries be pruned annually?

Pruning of Raspberries Raspberries require annual pruning. Pruning increases air circulation, helping to protect the plants from disease. It also directs the plant's energy toward fruit rather than foliage, removing old canes that are no longer productive. The method of pruning depends on the type of raspberry grown. Sharp and sterilized pruning shears (or scissors) should always be used. Pruning for Raspberries

Summer-bearing sorts need special treatment. Prune to the ground back all the canes that have borne fruit, to the brown, woody stems; and leave absolutely untouched all the new green primocanes that spring up in the meantime, for they will bear next season. Thin the remainder, keeping only six canes to each foot of row; the object being to avoid thick planting.

Everbearing raspberries need to be handled differently. Cut all canes off to the ground in late winter: that will force a big single crop of fruit in September and October. Or leave some canes for early fruiting. Then, after they have fruited, prune them back. Do as you want.

Use the right tools. For smaller canes, use bypass pruners; for thicker ones, loppers. Cut at a 45-degree angle, as this helps shed water so it doesn't gather on the cut surface and cause rot. Always cut to the ground. Remove all limbs and debris from the area when done.

Common pruning catastrophes. Beware the stub. A stub is a stub. Never prune the latter down to the ground. They encourage pests and disease. Never prune green canes of new summer varieties. They will furnish all next summer's fruit. Never prune in wet weather. The spores escape and fly about through the air.

After pruning the flowers, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring. Keep soil moisture with mulch. Watch for new growth - this is a sign of success. Good pruning will increase your yield by 30 or 40%. It can prolong the plant life for decades. Your berries will thank you.

Read the full article: 7 Essential Steps to Grow Raspberries at Home