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Considered to be one of the most winter hardy and thornless varieties available. Chester produces large, very sweet, high quality berries that are juicy and have great flavour. Excellent fresh and for use in jams, jellies and baking. Fruit ripens in August on previous-years' canes.
| • | Full Sun |
| • | Attracts Birds |
| • | Fast |
| • | Summer |
| • | Green |
| • | Herbal garden |
| • | Container Plants |
Chester Blackberries are self-pollinating, but will increase production if another variety is nearby. Avoid growing Blackberries where potatoes, grapes, tomatoes, raspberries, peppers, apples or peaches had once previously grown. These plants share similar diseases and pests with Blackberries.
Blackberries grow best in a slightly acidic, rich soil and full sun. If planting in heavy clay, add peat moss or compost. Blackberry canes should be thinned yearly, removing any canes more than two years old. Hardiness, maintenance of moisture, and weed control can be improved with an application of mulch or compost in late fall. Canes should be laid down beneath the snow line in winter; cover with wood chips. Fruit is produced on second-year canes.