Triple Crown Blackberries (Rubus Fruticosus): A Sweet Powerhouse

By: Heather Daly

Few plants combine flavor, function, and elegance quite like the Triple Crown blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), a vigorous and thornless cultivar belonging to the Rosaceae family, the same beloved plant group as roses, apples, and strawberries. This blackberry is not only beautiful and bountiful but also self-pollinating, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Nutrient-Rich and Antioxidant-Packed

Triple Crown blackberries are bursting with vitamins C, K, and A, and are a good source of manganese, folate, and dietary fiber. Their high antioxidant content, especially anthocyanins, supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and may even enhance brain function. These berries are more than delicious; they’re nutritional powerhouses you can grow at home.

Why Gardeners Love Triple Crown

1. Thornless canes: Easy and safe to harvest

2. Large, juicy berries: Known for their sweet-tart flavor

3. Extended fruiting: Ripens from mid-July into September

4. Self-pollinating: No second plant required for fruit production

5. High-yielding & cold-hardy: Thrives in zones 5–9

Its impressive combination of ease and productivity has made Triple Crown a favorite in home landscapes and small farms.

 Planting & Soil Preparation

Triple Crown thrives in full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. To adjust your soil:

1.  Add agricultural lime to reduce acidity

2. Use elemental sulfur or compost to lower alkaline soils

3. Conduct a soil test before planting for best results

Whether planted in the ground or in a 15–20 gallon container, Triple Crown requires space, support, and nutrient-rich soil to thrive.

Growing in Containers

Container planting works well with:

1. High-quality potting mix rich in organic matter

2. Frequent watering, as containers dry out faster

3.  Monthly feeding or use of low-release fertilizer

4. Winter protection move pots to a sheltered location if needed

Fertilizing & Pruning

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced 10-10-10 blend.

After fruiting, remove spent floricanes (second-year canes) at the base to make room for next year’s growth. In late winter, thin and shape new canes to improve airflow and reduce disease.

Training the Canes

Support is essential for this trailing variety. Train canes along a trellis or fence to:

1.  Maximize sunlight

2.  Improve airflow

3.  Make harvesting easier

4.  Reduce risk of fungal disease

Tie new canes horizontally to encourage fruiting branches the following year.

Pest & Disease Awareness

Watch for:

• Aphids and Japanese beetles (treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap)

• Cane blight or anthracnose (prevent with proper pruning and spacing)

• Orange rust remove affected plants promptly

Mulching, sanitation, and good spacing go a long way in disease prevention.

Fruiting Timeline & Harvest

Triple Crown typically begins producing fruit 1 to 2 years after planting. Harvest when berries are fully black, plump, and detach easily usually from mid-summer through late August.

Final Word

With its roots in the rose family and fruit worthy of a gourmet market, the Triple Crown blackberry is a stunning addition to any edible garden. It offers beauty, nutrition, and reliability, whether in raised beds, backyard rows, or a well-placed container on your patio.