A reliable variety that will bring the joy of homegrown, delicious berries right to your Prescott backyard. If you're dreaming of plump, juicy raspberries for fresh eating, jams, or desserts, this is a fantastic selection known for its excellent flavor and productivity.
Imagine rows of sturdy canes producing an abundance of large, firm, and wonderfully sweet-tart raspberries typically in early to mid-summer. The Willamette is a summer-bearing variety, meaning you'll get a concentrated harvest, perfect for enjoying fresh and preserving for later. Beyond the delectable fruit, the raspberry canes offer a bit of visual interest with their slightly arching habit and green foliage.
Willamette Raspberry bushes typically grow to a manageable height of about 4 to 6 feet, and they will spread by suckers to form a patch over time. To keep them tidy and maximize fruit production, it's best to plant them in rows and provide support with a trellis or stakes. They thrive in full sun here in Prescott, which is essential for abundant fruit production and the best flavor. While they can tolerate a bit of afternoon shade, especially during the hottest part of the summer, more sun means more berries! They are also known to be relatively deer resistant, though young, tender shoots might occasionally attract attention.
To give your Willamette Raspberry plants the best start, plant them in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Just as we always advise for productive plants, amend the soil with compost before planting. After planting, apply a generous layer of Watters Premium Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool. Feed your raspberry plants in early spring with 6-4-4-7 Fruit & Vegetable Plant Food to encourage strong growth and a bountiful harvest. With a little care, you'll be enjoying the taste of homegrown raspberries in no time! #WillametteRaspberry #HomegrownBerries #SummerFruitingRaspberry #DeerResistantFruit #PrescottGardening
