Many, many of you have asked if you should “prune the dead raspberry canes” in your garden. Congratulations – no joke: If you have asked this question you are among the smartest ‘earth life’ folks out there! Why? When you saw the ‘dead’ canes you stopped because something didnt feel quite right about pruning them out. Some little discomfort poked at you. You were in touch with intuition – not quite instinct, as in other animals – but an ancient way of seeing the world around you. (That feeling saved my life more than once when I was in law enforcement.)
Instead of pruning ,you sent me a text: “Should I…”
Here are pictures of exactly why it didnt feel quite right.
Some berry plants are referred to as “Everbearing”. Last year’s canes will produce the first flowers and fruit, while this year’s canes are growing. A second production should come later in Summer and Fall on this year’s canes.
To check to see if a cane is done, place the tip of your index finger directly on the top of the cane and slowly, gently but firmly, move the cane around in a circle. If it is done, you will usually hear a crack noise. It is breaking off at the bottom.
Turn the light of that pokey doubt into a mindful (being aware) way of knowing your garden. You will never see it the same again.
So very smart people, enjoy those berries; you earned them!
The Refuge Permaculture Center 