Soft Fruit Plants

Soft Fruit Plants FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy soft fruit plants in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to Plant Soft Fruit Plants

Soft fruit plants are best planted in the autumn or early spring when the soil is moist and the plants have time to establish their roots before the growing season. For bare-root plants, autumn planting is ideal, while container-grown plants can be planted at any time of the year, provided the soil is not frozen or waterlogged. Early planting ensures that your soft fruit plants get off to a strong start and are well-prepared to produce a bountiful harvest in their first season.

How to Grow Soft Fruit Plants

Growing soft fruit plants is a rewarding experience that can yield delicious results year after year. Start by selecting a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil. Most soft fruit plants prefer slightly acidic soil, so it’s a good idea to test your soil and amend it if necessary. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the plant's root system, then place the plant in the hole, spreading the roots out evenly. Backfill with soil, firming gently around the base, and water thoroughly. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool. For plants like raspberries and blackberries, providing support with stakes or a trellis will help keep the canes upright and make harvesting easier. Regular watering, feeding with a balanced fertiliser, and pruning according to the specific needs of the plant will help ensure healthy growth and a good crop.

How Long Does It Take to Harvest Soft Fruit Plants?

The time it takes to harvest soft fruit plants varies depending on the type of fruit and the growing conditions. Strawberries, for example, can start producing fruit as early as the first year after planting, particularly if you choose everbearing varieties that fruit throughout the summer. Raspberries typically produce fruit in their second year, with summer-fruiting varieties ripening in June or July and autumn-fruiting varieties producing from late August to October. Blueberries and currants may take a bit longer to establish, often beginning to produce good crops in their second or third year. Patience is rewarded with abundant harvests once the plants are fully mature.

Why Grow Soft Fruit Plants?

Growing your own soft fruit plants offers numerous benefits. Not only do you have access to the freshest, most flavourful fruits, but you also have control over how they are grown, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals. Soft fruit plants can be highly productive, providing a continuous supply of berries and fruits throughout the growing season. Many soft fruits are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fibre, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Additionally, soft fruit plants can be decorative, adding beauty to your garden with their blossoms and colourful fruits. Whether you want to enjoy fresh fruits straight from the plant, make homemade jams, or freeze them for later use, growing your own soft fruit plants is a rewarding and sustainable choice.

Where Can You Grow Soft Fruit Plants?

Soft fruit plants can be grown in a variety of settings, from large garden plots to small containers. They thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil but can also be grown in partial shade, particularly in warmer climates. Strawberries and low-growing berries are perfect for containers, hanging baskets, or raised beds, while raspberries, blackberries, and currants are ideal for borders and larger garden spaces. Blueberries require acidic soil, so they are often grown in containers filled with ericaceous compost. Soft fruit plants can also be incorporated into edible landscaping, adding both beauty and productivity to your garden. With the right care, they can provide delicious fruits for many years.