Navaho Blackberry

Navaho Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus 'Navaho')

Navaho Blackberry is a thornless, erect blackberry renowned for sweet, firm berries and a naturally upright, compact habit; it delivers reliable summer harvests in gardens and large containers with minimal training.

Distinctive Features

Nearly thornless canes carry heavy crops of medium to large, glossy black fruit with balanced sweetness and excellent firmness; the self-supporting, vertical habit reduces trellis needs while keeping rows tidy.

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, especially from bloom through fruit swell.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.
• Mature Size: Canes typically 4 to 6 ft tall; spread 3 to 4 ft per plant.
• Bloom Time: Late spring; fruit ripens mid to late summer depending on climate.
• 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: Erect habit forms a productive, narrow row with simple supports.
• Raised Beds: Performs excellently in deep, amended soil with drip irrigation.
• Large Containers: 16 to 20 in pots with a small trellis or ring support.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply when the top 1 in is dry; increase frequency during heat and fruiting.
• Pruning: After harvest, remove spent floricanes at the base; tip primocanes at 36 to 42 in to encourage branching for next year.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced or berry fertilizer; reapply lightly in 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 plants to deter birds and avoid soggy soils to reduce cane diseases.

Why Choose Navaho Blackberry?

• Thornless Convenience: Easy, snag-free picking for families.
• Upright Habit: Space-efficient rows with minimal training.
• Quality Fruit: Firm, sweet berries ideal for fresh eating and baking.
• Reliable Producer: Consistent yields across a range of warm-summer climates.

Plant Navaho Blackberry in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and steady moisture to enjoy abundant, flavorful summer harvests.