Pre-emergent herbicides are useful in controlling weeds within the rows. Princep and Casoron should be used in the early spring before weeds begin to germinate. Specific application concentrations should be matched to the soil type. Mulching with straw or leaves to a depth of 6 to 8 inches each year can be used to maintain soil moisture. Mulching partially reduces cultivation and can help increase yields.
Irrigation is necessary in dry areas and during dry periods.
Apply 1 to 2 inches of water once a week during the fruiting season and once every 2 or 3 weeks during the rest of the dry season. Stable manure, if available, is a good fertilizer for raspberries. Apply the manure dry and at the rate of 1 pound per square foot. For the commercial fertilizer 2 to 3 pounds of fertilizer per 100 feet of row. Apply fertilizer in the late fall after growth has stopped or in early spring before growth begins.