Tips for Growing the Best Loganberry

If you’re looking to grow your own delicious berries in an urban garden, the loganberry is an excellent choice. This unique hybrid—part raspberry, part blackberry—produces juicy, tangy berries that are perfect for fresh eating, jams, and desserts. Unlike some berry plants, loganberries are hardy, productive, and relatively low-maintenance, making them great for beginner gardeners.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully grow the best loganberries in your garden.

1. Choosing the Right Growing Space

Even if you live in a city, loganberries can thrive in small spaces like:
✔ Raised garden beds – Ideal for better soil drainage.
✔ Large containers – A great option for patios or balconies (use at least a 15-gallon pot).
✔ Vertical trellises – Helps maximize space in small gardens.

Sunlight Needs: Loganberries require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, so choose the sunniest spot available.

2. Preparing the Soil

Loganberries prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Here’s how to get the best results:
✅ Use loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 (slightly acidic).
✅ Improve soil fertility by adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
✅ Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially if planting in a container.

3. Planting Loganberries

The best time to plant loganberries is in early spring or late autumn. When planting:

• Spacing: Keep plants 3–4 feet apart to allow for healthy growth.
• Depth: Dig a hole deep enough to cover the roots without burying the crown.
• Watering: Water well after planting to help establish the roots.

Next Read: How to Grow Berries

4. Supporting Your Plants

Since loganberries grow on long, trailing canes, they need support:
✔ Install a trellis, fence, or wire system to train the vines upward.
✔ Tie the canes loosely to the support structure to keep them off the ground.
✔ This improves airflow and makes harvesting easier.

5. Watering & Feeding

✔ Water regularly, especially during dry spells—aim for 1 inch of water per week.
✔ Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
✔ Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 mix) in early spring and mid-summer.

Next Read: What are the Different Composting Methods

6. Pruning for Maximum Yield

Loganberries produce fruit on second-year canes (last year’s growth).
✂ After harvesting, cut back old, woody canes to ground level.
🌿 Leave newer canes (green, flexible ones) for next year’s fruit.
This keeps your plants healthy and ensures consistent berry production.

7. Protecting Your Loganberries

🐦 Birds love loganberries, so consider using netting to protect your crop.
🦠 Watch out for fungal diseases like powdery mildew—good airflow and proper spacing help prevent this.
🐛 Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and control them with organic insecticidal soap if needed.

8. Harvesting & Enjoying Your Berries

Loganberries ripen from mid-summer to early autumn.
🍇 Pick berries when they are deep red and slightly soft—they don’t turn black like blackberries.
⏳ They don’t store well fresh, so eat them quickly or freeze them for later use.