Variety: Nova / Floricanes (produces berries on second year canes)
Sold as: 1-2 year old bare root plants. If shipped, all plants will be cut back for ease of shipping. If picking up your order, some may or may not be cut back.
Characteristics
- Botanical Name: Rubus idaeus ‘Nova’
- Growth Habit: Upright, sturdy canes with minimal thorns; excellent cold hardiness.
- Height: Typically 4–5 ft (1.2–1.5 m).
- Width: Spreads via suckers; allow 18–24 in (45–60 cm) between plants.
- Fruit: Medium to large, firm red berries with sweet, tangy flavor; great for fresh eating and freezing.
- Hardiness Zone: 3–8 (ideal for Alberta’s cold climate).
- Growth Rate: Fast; produces vigorous primocanes and reliable yields.
Benefits
- Extremely cold-hardy and tolerant of fluctuating spring temperatures.
- High yields of flavorful berries perfect for fresh eating, jams, and freezing.
- Minimal thorns for easier harvesting.
- Disease-resistant and low maintenance once established.
Care Tips
- Sun: Full sun for best fruit production.
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
- Water: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during fruiting.
- Pruning: Remove spent floricanes to ground level after harvest; thin primocanes in early spring.
Common Uses
- Home berry patches and edible landscapes.
- Fresh eating, preserves, and freezing.
- Ideal for cold-climate gardens and small orchards.
