Bramble is the common name for the genus Rubus which includes raspberries, blackberries and their hybrids and cultivars. The term bramble is used to denote “thorniness” a common trait among
Backyard fruit growers are often confronted with diseases that can limit the health and yields of their crops. Although use of resistant cultivars and supplementary fungicide sprays are helpful for
No one likes it when their favorite landscape tree splits apart with a heavy snow load or ice. Trees take considerable time to grow and develop and the loss of
Grapes are sturdy plants. They stubbornly withstand drought and can succeed even in rocky, infertile soils. Given reasonable care, grape vines remain productive for 20 to 30 years. For the best use, train grapes along an existing border fence or trellis. This serves to set off property boundaries, add privacy, screen undesirable views or add landscape interest.
The type of landscape use, amount of leisure time available and desire for fruit are considerations in determining the number of vines you should plant.
Weeding, pruning, tying and spraying are necessary cultural operations. In most instances, 6 to 12 grape plants are enough. Each mature plant should produce about 10 to 12 pounds of fruit. Because nurseries offer a number of cultivars, you have a choice of fruit colors, flavors, ripening times and culinary uses. Choose disease-resistant cultivars when possible. The University of Kentucky researches varieties of grapes and other fruits. For backyard use, cultivars of American