Close up of graduate student pulling blackberry leaf tissue samples for nutrient analysis

Blackberry Nutrient Management in the Southeast

Nutrient management is key to optimizing fruit production of any berry crop. Research in Arkansas and the surrounding Southeast region has studied the nutrient needs of blackberry. Updated annual fertilizer rates for floricane fruiting blackberry and updated recommendations for leaf tissue nutrient sampling of blackberry in-season have been developed. Growers are encouraged to use leaf tissue nutrient test results, in combination with observations of plant growth and fruit quality to tailor recommended regional nutrient budgets to their farm. The resources below can assist growers in fine-tuning their nutrient management plans for Southeastern blackberry.

 

Videos

Blackberry Plant Tissue Nutrient Sampling

Not sure when or how to collect leaf samples from your blackberry plants? This video walks you through the process step-by-step to help you finetune your fertility program.

 

Calculating Blackberry Fertility Rates

Getting fertilizer rates right for established blackberries can be tricky. This video breaks down the process in a clear, practical way so you can apply the right amount with confidence.

 

Interpreting Blackberry Nutrient Results

Reading plant tissue reports can feel overwhelming. This video breaks down blackberry nutrient results in a clear, practical way to help you understand what your plants need and why.

 

Publications

Amanda Lay-Walters et al. 2026, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture

With updated sufficiency ranges, clear explanations of fertigation vs. broadcast methods, and step‑by‑step sampling guidance, this publication gives growers the tools to fine‑tune fertility programs, avoid costly over‑application, and support healthier, more productive plantings year after year.

MP590 Southeastern Blackberry Nutrient Monitoring and Management

Amanda Lay-Walters et al. 2026, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture

This study gives producers a first look at how different nitrogen rates actually change blackberry growth, yield, leaf nutrient levels, and even postharvest fruit quality. It highlights where applying more N helps and where it starts to hurt so growers can fine‑tune rates for stronger plants, better berries, and less waste.

Impact of Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate on ‘Ouachita’ Blackberry Leaf Tissue Nutrient Concentration, Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality in: HortScience Volume 61: Issue 2 | ASHS

Amanda Lay-Walters et al. 2025, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture

Growers get an early look at how blackberry leaf nutrients actually change across cultivars, states, and growth stages, revealing patterns that current sufficiency ranges often miss. The article highlights why these shifts matter and points toward more accurate, region‑specific nutrient guidelines that could make fertility decisions far more precise.

Survey of Seasonal Variation of Leaf Tissue Nutrient Concentration of Southeastern Blackberry in: HortScience Volume 60: Issue 11 | ASHS

 

 

 

Funding for this project is provided by the Southern Region Small Fruit Consortium.

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