A pint of fertilizer weighs about 1 pound. During the first year or two of growth, apply the fertilizer in a 12-inch circle around the plant. On older plants, broadcast the fertilizer down the row. Mulch with the material of your choice. Mulch aids in water retention and weed control.
Blackberries are quite drought-hardy, but require considerable water during the fruiting period.
Apply about 1 inch of water per week by irrigation if rainfall does not meet the need. The berries are ripe and at peak flavor when they begin to lose their glossy shine and turn slightly dull. Trailing and semi-trailing varieties begin to ripen in late June in the Piedmont, one to two weeks earlier in coastal areas and one to two weeks later in mountainous areas. Erect varieties are about two weeks earlier than trailing or semi-trailing varieties. Harvest should cover two to three weeks.