Blackberries have been grown by man for more than 2,000 years, both for their edible fruit and for medicinal purposes, said a New Mexico State University horticulture specialist. Erect Indian varieties like 'Choctaw' and 'Kiowa' tend to be more hardy. Dickerson grows the variety 'Black Satin' in his home garden because it is thornless and flowers over a long time. The wall acts like a heat sink, protecting the plant from cool night temperatures, and shades the berries in the summer making them sweeter.
Blackberries have perennial root systems and biennial canes.
Although blackberries prefer acid soils, they will tolerate some alkalinity in New Mexico soils that are improved with a lot of compost or peat moss. Soak bareroot cuttings in water for a short time before planting them in the spring. Trim off any broken roots and spread the remaining roots evenly in the planting hole. Cover roots firmly with soil and water after planting. Cut the tops of the plants back to 6 inches to balance the top growth with the trimmed roots.