Pollination Information for Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry

The Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry (Rubus x 'Triple Crown') is a self-fertile cultivar, meaning it can produce fruit without cross-pollination from another compatible variety. However, cross-pollination with another compatible variety can increase the quantity and quality of the fruit.

The best pollination partners for Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry are other thornless blackberry cultivars such as Apache, Arapaho, Natchez, and Navaho.

The pollination period for Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry occurs during the blooming season, which typically takes place in late spring or early summer. During this time, bees and other pollinators visit the flowers to transfer the pollen from the anthers to the stigma, which fertilizes the flower and leads to fruit development.

It is important to ensure that there are enough pollinators present in the area to facilitate effective pollination. Gardeners can encourage pollinators by planting pollinator-friendly flowers nearby and avoiding the use of pesticides that may harm them.

Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry (Rubus x 'Triple Crown') - FAQs

1. What is a Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry?

Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry (Rubus x 'Triple Crown') is a fruit variety of blackberry that produces large, sweet, and almost seedless berries. It is called “Triple Crown” because it is thornless, large and sweet. It is also a cold-hardy plant that can grow well in different parts of the United States.

2. How tall does a Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plant grow?

Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plants are known for being vigorous growers, with canes reaching up to 8 feet in height. The plants can grow up to 5-6 feet wide as well. These plants are fast-growing and may require trellising to support their weight.

3. When does the Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry harvest?

The harvest of Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry is usually in mid to late summer, between July and August. The berries ripen to a deep, shiny black color and are ready to pick when they come off easily in the hand. The berries can be eaten fresh or used for various culinary purposes such as jams, jellies, pies, and smoothies.

4. How do I care for my Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plant?

Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry requires full sun exposure and well-drained soil. To care for your plant, make sure it receives adequate water, especially during the fruiting season. Prune the canes regularly to promote new growth, and fertilize the plant with balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.

5. Does the Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plant require any special maintenance?

Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry is generally low maintenance, but pruning is necessary to promote fruit production and prevent the plant from becoming too dense. Regularly remove dead, damaged, or old canes, and train the remaining canes on trellises or other supports.

6. How do I plant my Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plant?

To plant your Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plant, choose a sunny and well-draining spot. Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant's root-ball and loosen the soil in the bottom. Place the plant in the hole, then fill it with soil and tamp it down gently. Water your plant thoroughly, and mulch around it to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

7. Is the Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry plant resistant to any diseases or pests?

Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry has some resistance to common pests and diseases, including anthracnose and rust. However, it can still be susceptible to other issues, such as spider mites and thrips, if not maintained correctly. Consult a plant specialist or extension office if you notice any problems with your plant.

Planting:
Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry is best planted in early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. Choose a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5. Plant the bushes 4-5 feet apart in rows that are 8-10 feet apart. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the entire root system. Place the bush in the hole at the same depth it was previously growing and fill the hole with soil. Water thoroughly after planting. Care:
Water the bushes regularly, especially during periods of drought. Blackberries need about an inch of water per week. Apply a layer of mulch around the bushes to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Prune in late winter or early spring by removing any dead or diseased canes and thinning out the remaining canes. Triple Crown Thornless Blackberry is a thornless variety, but some suckers may still appear. Remove them as they appear to prevent the bush from becoming too dense. Cover the bushes with bird netting to protect the fruit from birds. Harvest when the berries turn black and are soft to the touch.