Protect the investment of time and money by choosing recommended cultivars and quality plants. Raspberries grow best in a soil pH of 5.8 to 6.5, but will grow and produce in many different soils. Use a soil test as a guide before applying lime or fertilizers. Avoid areas where tomatoes, potatoes or eggplants have been previously grown. These plants carry disease-causing organisms that also infect brambles.
Red raspberries are more disease resistant than black or purple.
Newer cultivars of black raspberries have been developed with greater disease resistance. Avoid locations within 300 feet of wild raspberries and blackberries. Wild brambles are less disease resistant than hybrids and may harbor disease which can be spread. Plant in early spring, March or April, if soil is not overly wet. Fall planting is acceptable but not preferred.