Tip #1: All blackberry and raspberry plants are self-fertile and will have good fruit production on their own. However if a second variety is planted nearby, they will have heavier fruit production.

Tip #2: Avoid planting strawberries in very low-lying areas prone to spring frosts.

Tip #3: Mulch strawberry plant rows and aisles with hay or newspaper to keep weed population down.

Tip #4: Do not plant strawberry, raspberry or blackberry plants where eggplants, peppers, potatoes or tomatoes have been grown within the past 3 years.

Tip #5: Pinch off any blooms on your first year planted strawberry plants. This allows them to put efforts into growing larger for second year production.

Tip #6: Plant blackberry and raspberry plants 2 to 3 feet apart with rows that are 3 to 5 feet apart.

Tip #7: Plant strawberry plants 1 to 1 1/2 feet apart with rows approximately 2 feet apart.