Baby Cakes, a dwarf and thornless blackberry plant, is the perfect fruit to plant this summer. Not only are these blackberries a delicious summer snack – they can be decorative and festive, too. The large berries present in firework-like displays of fruit… so get ready to show off this plant for the 4th of July!
Baby Cakes blackberries need full sun and must be watered regularly, or when the top 3 inches of soil is dry. This plant will grow to be around 3 to 4 feet tall and wide with white spring flowers, followed by midsummer fruit. Key features of Baby Cakes include it being thornless, dwarf plant, bird-friendly, and edible – plus, it also makes for a great gift. Some companion plants that this shrub works best with are Rosemary, Yarrow, Salvia, Lavender, and Russian Sage. Baby Cakes is also a great plant to give your garden a contemporary, cottage, or rustic look.
Where to Plant Baby Cakes Blackberries
To get the best flavor and growth, Baby Cakes should be planted in a location with full sun. Provide well-drained, neutral soil for this plant. Choose a spot that is away from strong winds, or plant them up against a fence or wall. Stakes or trellis structures can also be used for support. Organic matter mixed into the soil will give you the most success for your berries.
How to Plant Baby Cakes
- Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the plant.
- Carefully remove the plant from the pot.
- Check the root ball for circling roots. If the plant is root-bound, cut an X in the bottom of the root ball and rough up the sides.
- Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is even with the soil grade.
- Add a soil amendment, such as compost, to the soil you dug out. Backfill the hole with amended soil.
- Add a root starter fertilizer designed for new plantings.
- Water the plant thoroughly and consistently.
Get the Family Involved
Make gardening a family event! Baby Cakes blackberries are great for growing with the family’s help because this plant is thornless. Your kids can help you plant from the start and pick the berries when they’re ready – and they can feel proud of eating something that they helped grow!
Besides, what kid doesn’t love an excuse to play in the dirt?
