Growing Guide: Low-Chill Blackberries

Growing Tips

Low-chill blackberries including Snowbank, Natchez, Ponca, and Apache are fast-growing, self-fertile perennial fruiting shrubs that thrive in full sun and rich, well-draining soil. They typically reach 6–12 ft. depending on the variety and can be grown in the ground or trained along a trellis, fence, or other support. Provide regular moisture during active growth and fruit development, while avoiding consistently soggy soil.

Blackberries have a unique growth cycle: the roots are perennial, while the canes are biennial. New canes that emerge in spring generally grow vegetatively during their first year and produce fruit the following year. After fruiting, those older canes naturally die back and should be removed through pruning. Regular pruning helps maintain healthy growth, improves airflow, and maximizes berry production. Because these varieties are low-chill, they are well suited to regions with mild winters and can also be grown in containers in colder climates.

Quick Care Guide

Care: All varieties are self-fertile and prefer full sun, rich well-draining soil, and regular moisture during active growth and fruiting. They are perennial at the root with biennial fruiting canes.