Prime-Ark Freedom Blackberry

Prime-Ark Freedom Blackberry (Rubus 'Prime-Ark Freedom')

Prime-Ark Freedom Blackberry is a breakthrough thornless, primocane-fruiting blackberry that delivers very large, sweet berries on first-year canes as well as a summer floricane crop; vigorous, upright growth suits home gardens, small orchards, and large containers with support.

Distinctive Features

First thornless primocane blackberry with jumbo fruit and excellent fresh-eating flavor; early fall crop on new canes extends the season, while a summer crop on second-year canes boosts total yield.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for highest yield, size, and sweetness.
• Soil: Fertile, well-drained loam enriched with organic matter; avoid waterlogged sites.
• Water: Keep evenly moist from bloom through fruit swell; do not allow roots to dry out.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9 (may succeed in 5 with winter protection).
• Mature Size: Canes typically 5 to 7 ft tall; spread 3 to 5 ft per plant.
• Bloom Time: Late spring on floricanes; primocanes bloom midsummer with fruit into fall.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic, about 5.5 to 6.8.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Shiny black clusters and clean canes create an edible accent near patios.
• Edible Hedge: Upright habit forms a productive row with a simple trellis.
• Raised Beds: High yields in deep, amended soil with drip irrigation.
• Large Containers: 18 to 24 in pots with a sturdy ring or panel support.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply when the top 1 in is dry; increase frequency during heat and fruiting.
• Pruning: For a single large fall crop, mow or cut all canes to the ground in late winter; for two crops, remove spent floricanes after early summer harvest and tip primocanes at 36 to 42 in to encourage branching.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced or berry fertilizer; reapply lightly midsummer for container plants.
• Mulching: Apply 2 to 3 in organic mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Notes: Provide a simple trellis for airflow and fruit quality; net against birds; monitor for cane diseases and avoid soggy soils.

Why Choose Prime-Ark Freedom Blackberry?

• Thornless Convenience: Easy, snag-free picking for families.
• Extended Season: Primocane and floricane crops maximize harvest windows.
• Jumbo Fruit: Very large, flavorful berries for fresh eating and desserts.
• Space Efficient: Upright canes fit narrow rows, beds, and big containers.

Plant in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil, steady moisture, and simple trellising to enjoy abundant, high-quality blackberries from summer into fall.