Pruning first year raspberry canes

First year raspberry canes generally should not be heavily pruned; instead, focus on thinning and removing weak, dead, or damaged growth to promote strong, healthy growth for future fruiting.wallishgreenhouses+1​

Pruning Basics for First Year Canes

• Only remove any canes that are thin, damaged, or diseased during late fall or early spring when the plants are dormant.starkbros+1​

• Space remaining canes about 6 inches (15 cm) apart at the soil level for adequate air circulation and future vigor.gardeningwithsharon+1​

• Avoid cutting canes back heavily in the first year, as vigorous canes should be allowed to grow to full height; significant pruning typically begins in year two once the plant is established.wallishgreenhouses+1​

Types of Raspberries and Pruning Impact

• For summer-bearing raspberries, keep all strong, healthy first-year canes; they become fruiting floricanes in their second year.finegardening+1​

• For fall-bearing (primocane-fruiting) types, you may prune all canes to the ground each year, but if seeking two crops, leave some primocanes spaced apart to become next year's floricanes.extension.umn+1​

Practical Tips

• Use clean pruners to avoid disease spread.gardeningwithsharon​

• If the patch becomes very dense, thin out a few first-year canes to maintain air flow and keep the patch healthy; this is more likely needed in subsequent years.starkbros+1​

In summary, for first year raspberry canes, mostly focus on thinning and cleaning up weak growth rather than major pruning, and establish a spacing that will support strong, productive canes in future seasons.wallishgreenhouses+2​

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2. https://www.starkbros.com/growing-guide/how-to-grow/berry-plants/raspberry-plants/pruning
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18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQcSRwFpFOc
19. https://www.rhs.org.uk/fruit/raspberries/grow-your-own