Sunlight and Space Considerations

• Blackberry plants require a location that receives full sun for best growth. Erect varieties will grow in any garden setting with adequate spacing. In general, 15 blackberry bushes will supply a family with an adequate fruit harvest. Plant the blackberries in rows that are 12 feet apart with 2 to 8 feet between plants in the rows. Close plant spacing will form a hedge look. Use a trellis to grow trailing blackberries. While the trellis may require less area than the erect varieties, the plant height will increase.
  
  

Soil pH and Nutrient Considerations

• A neutral soil pH of 6 to 6.7 is preferable for optimal blackberry plant growth. Blackberries need soil with adequate plant nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous. If the soil around your home does not have the proper pH or adequate nutrients, you can amend the soil before you plant the bushes.
  
  

Soil Type and Drainage Considerations

• Blackberries enjoy a sandy loam or clay loam soil that is a mixture of sand, clay and organic materials. In general, blackberry plants are not very particular about the soil type. Choose a location with good drainage because standing water can damage the root system and promote plant disease. You can test the soil for proper drainage by digging a hole approximately 1 foot deep and filling the hole with water. If the water does not drain within 24 hours, the soil has poor drainage and is not appropriate for your plants. You can improve the soil condition by mixing organic matter into the garden before you plant the blackberries or you can use a raised bed.
  
  

Choosing the Best Planting Location

• To select the best planting location for your blackberry bushes, consider the locations that have the necessary area for the number of bushes you want to plant. Then, find a location that meets the sunlight, pH, nutrient and drainage requirements. You can collect and analyze a soil sample to help with the selection of the garden area. Do not plant your blackberries in an area that formerly held tomatoes, sweet potatoes, peanuts, roses, eggplant, watermelon, cucumber or pumpkin as these plants might increase the chance of fungal issues.