Mulching is recommended for weed control and moisture retention. Keep mulch away from the stems. Mulch keeps the stems moist and increases the chances of disease infection. Root competition from nearby weeds or other vegetation can drastically affect fruit production. When cultivating for weeds, applying fertilizers or adding organic matter, remember that brambles have very shallow root systems.
Some mulches remove nitrogen from the soil, so be sure to supplement with nitrogen when appropriate.
Cut all bramble canes down to the ground after they have finished bearing. Dispose of old canes as soon as possible to reduce pests and disease. Other pruning practices vary, depending on type of bramble grown. The spring pruning removes all weak canes and cuts back remaining canes to 3 to 4 feet. The second pruning is to remove all canes which have borne fruit.