Description
Lawton Blackberry – Overview
The Lawton Blackberry, also known as the Lawtonberry or New Rochelle Blackberry, is a historically significant variety and was the first blackberry to be widely cultivated in the United States. Discovered in 1834 in New Rochelle, New York, it gained popularity for its size, flavor, and productivity. By the mid-1800s, it became one of the most commonly grown blackberry cultivars in the country.
Key Characteristics:
- Fruit: Produces large, plump berries that ripen to a deep purple-black color. The berries are about 20mm long and are known for their classic blackberry flavor—sweet with a rich aroma—making them excellent for eating fresh, making jam, or baking.
- Growth Habit: Grows on strong, thorny trailing canes. The vigorous vines benefit from trellising or support structures to keep fruit off the ground and ease the harvest process.
- Harvest Season: In the northern hemisphere, fruit typically ripens from June to July, placing it in the early to mid-summer harvest window.
Cultivation Tips:
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun for best fruit production and overall plant health.
- Soil: Thrives in fertile, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Good drainage is important to prevent root diseases.
- Watering: Needs regular watering during fruit development, but soil should not become soggy.
- Pruning: As a floricane-bearing plant, prune out the spent fruiting canes after harvest to encourage new growth. Thorny canes should be managed carefully to allow easier harvesting.
The Lawton Blackberry remains a beloved heirloom variety thanks to its rich history, bold flavor, and vigorous growth. Its large fruit and dependable yield make it a valuable addition to home gardens and small farms alike.
