Question:
When should I plant dormant, bare-root raspberry plants in Iowa?Answer:
Late March or April is the best time to plant dormant, bare-root raspberry plants in Iowa. If the planting of dormant, bare-root raspberry plants must be delayed after purchase, moisten the packing material around the roots of the raspberry plants and store them in a cool location, such as a garage or cellar.
Remove the dormant, bare-root plants from storage when ready to plant. If the roots of the raspberry plants are dry, soak them in water for several hours before planting. Set the raspberry plants slightly deeper into the soil than they were at the nursery. Plant yellow and red raspberries 2 inches deeper, while black and purple raspberries should be planted 1 inch deeper than previously grown. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the spread of the plant’s root system. Position the plant in the center of the hole, spread out its roots, then backfill with soil. Water each plant thoroughly, then prune back the canes, leaving a maximum of 2 to 3 inches above the soil.