Photo: Carl Axel Magnus Lindman, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Fruit plant
Arctic raspberry: when and how to prune
Rubus arcticus
Arctic raspberry is best pruned in February–March.
| Pruning months | February–March |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in March |
| Flowering | May–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Arctic raspberry: when to prune it?
Late February to March, before the new shoots appear.
Arctic raspberry: how to prune it?
- Cut last year’s dry, brown stems down to just above the ground.
- Also remove weak or diseased shoots.
- Dig out runners that stray too far from the carpet.
- Use clean secateurs and compost the clippings.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: February–March.
- Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Arctic raspberry flowers in May–July, when it attracts bees.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
- Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.
Caution: Do not cut off fresh shoots in summer: the flowers and fruits form on the new shoots.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Arctic raspberry · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.