Growing Blackberries in the Home Garden

Description

Blackberries are among the easiest and most rewarding small fruits to grow in Pacific Northwest gardens. Their vigorous growth, dependable harvests, and rich flavor make them a favorite for fresh eating, baking, jams, and freezing. On Saturday, September 26, 2026, gardeners are invited to attend "Growing Blackberries in the Home Garden," the seventh program in the eight-part Homegrown Berry Series. The free class will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Dungeness River Nature Center, 1943 W. Hendrickson Road, Sequim, WA 98382. Presented by veteran Clallam County Master Gardener and berry enthusiast Jeanette Stehr-Green, this practical and informative program will provide gardeners with the knowledge needed to successfully establish and maintain healthy, productive blackberry plants. Participants will learn: • The life cycle of a blackberry plant and how fruit develops • The differences between trailing, erect, and semi-erect blackberry types • How to prepare an ideal planting site with proper sunlight, soil, and drainage • Seasonal care, including watering, fertilizing, mulching, and weed management • Proper pruning and trellising techniques for maximum productivity and ease of harvest Blackberries are well suited to the north Olympic Peninsula and can produce generous crops when planted in the right location and cared for properly. This class will help gardeners avoid common mistakes and develop management practices that keep plants healthy and productive year after year. The Homegrown Berry Series is offered by the Washington State University Clallam County Master Gardeners, who provide research-based gardening education to the public. Admission is free and open to all. Registration is not required but helpful to ensure accommodation for all attendees. For more information or to register, visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/berryseries About WSU Clallam County Master Gardeners WSU Clallam County Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who help home gardeners succeed by sharing research-based information on environmentally sound gardening practices.