What is wrong with my raspberries?

6 years ago

My June-bearing raspberry patch has consistently had vigorous primocanes, but the next year after pruning I find that the crucial floricanes are pathetic and bear little fruit. Also this year I have noticed some yellowing in the leaves of the primocanes.

Notice how in the photo below the primocanes are yellowing while the floricanes are barren:

Meanwhile, just a few feet away in a different part of the patch, the primocanes are flourishing, while the floricanes are still suffering (at least there are a few berries over here):

So two questions:

1. What is the yellowing a sign of in the first photo?

2. How can I get better second-year floricanes after a strong first year?

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Comments (5)

PRO
User
6 years ago
Is this berry patch planted on level ground, or is it in a raised area with well-drained soil?
Bruce Hansen
Original Author
6 years ago
Part of the berry patch is on a slope that levels off, although there's no noticeable difference between the plants on the slope and those that are not. The soil is fairly compact but I have been mulching it regularly for a few years now.
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PRO
User
6 years ago
Many raspberry varieties need somewhat sandy soil, or to be planted in a raised area (8-12 inches above surrounding ground), or both, to do well long-term. If your patch continues to decline, suspect a root problem.
Bruce Hansen thanked User
PRO
Granite City Services
6 years ago
Many times a mature raspberry patch succumbs to a viral infection. The only remedy is to get certified virus free plants and start a new patch 100+ feet away. The virus remains in the soil so replanting in the same space is wasted effort.
ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
6 years ago
contact your local county extension office.. and ask them how to have your plants tested for virus... they may also know if it is a local issue ...

do this before your head explodes. .and you have to buy the neighbors house to get 100 feet away .. lol ...

ken