Common raspberry 'Polka'

Autumn fruiting raspberries fruit and flower on the the current season’s growth, so are pruned to ground level very early spring before the plant breaks dormancy. Because there is only one season’s growth on each plant, the canes do not need support, so can also be grown in large containers on the patio, given a little extra care with watering and feeding. (Three canes to 60 cm pot, in John Innes no 3)

Try to plant in a location that enjoys partial sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Polka is thought of as hardy, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures. Ideally plant in clay soil and try to keep the ph of your soil between the range of 5.7 and 6.0 as Polka likes to be in weakly acidic soil.

Grow new plants from suckers produced by existing canes

Try to ensure a gap of at least 1.62 feet (50.0 cm) when sowing to prevent overcrowding your seedlings.

Plant out bare rooted stock as soon as possible, after soaking the roots for an hour or so in water. The hole size should allow the roots to be spread out, and for it to be planted at the same depth as it was at the nursrey. leave 60 cm between plants. Add some blood fish and bone and firm in.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Polka is a hardy plant.

Large autumn fruiting raspberry

This variety tends to be ready for harvesting by early autumn.