Blackberry (bramble) ‘Tayberry’ (Rubus fruticosus) - hardy soft fruit - 9 cm pot - Height 35 cm

Yes, the Tayberry blackberry (Rubus × loganobaccus) is a hardy plant that easily withstands winters in most regions of France. Its roots are frost-resistant, although the above-ground stems can be damaged during periods of intense, prolonged cold. In such cases, the plant regrows vigorously from the rootstock in spring. In areas with very severe winters (mountains, northeast), a thick layer of mulch around the base provides welcome additional protection, although this is not essential in lowland areas.

The Tayberry blackberry produces long, fleshy, dark red to burgundy fruits with a unique flavor: it combines the 'tangy tartness of the raspberry with the sweet richness of the blackberry. The berries are larger than those of a'classic raspberry and particularly rich in aroma. The harvest generally'spans from July to August depending on the region and'exposure. The fruit can be eaten fresh, made into jam or coulis, or frozen for'winter. It is recommended to pick them when'they are a deep red and come off easily, a sign that'they are fully ripe.

The Tayberry Mûroise follows a biennial cycle: the stems of the l'year (primocanes) grow during the first season and bear fruit the second (floricanes). After the late-d'summer harvest, all stems that have just borne fruit must be cut off at the base, as they will not bear fruit again. The new stems of the l'year, green and vigorous, are then trained on a trellis, taut wires, or a fence, tied horizontally or in a fan shape. This regular pruning keeps the plant productive, well-ventilated, and makes harvesting easier.

Yes, the Tayberry (Rubus × loganobaccus) can be grown in a large container on a sunny balcony or terrace, provided you choose a pot of at least 40 to 50 litres to allow the roots to develop. The growing medium should be rich, fresh and well-drained. Watering will be more frequent than when planted in the ground, especially in summer during fruiting. A trellis or wall-mounted support will help guide the long, flexible stems. When grown in a pot, the yield will be slightly lower than when planted in the ground, but perfectly satisfactory for a regular home harvest.

The Tayberry Mûroise is a sun-loving fruit plant that needs d'at least 6 to 8 hours of d'irect sunlight per day to produce an abundant crop of sweet fruit. A south or southwest exposure is ideal. In partial shade, the plant will grow, but fruiting is significantly reduced and the fruit is less sweet. It is also important to p'rotect it from strong winds, which can break the long, flexible stems, especially during the spring flowering. A warm, sunny spot against a south-facing wall is perfect for maximizing the harvest.

The Tayberry (Rubus × loganobaccus) is a hybrid resulting from the cross between a blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) and a raspberry (Rubus idaeus), developed in Scotland in the 1970s in the Tay Valley, from which it takes its name. Its fruits are longer and larger than those of the raspberry, dark red to purple in color, and they do not detach as easily from the receptacle. The flavor is more complex: sweeter and less acidic than the raspberry, more fragrant and fruity than the blackberry. The canes are also longer and more vigorous than those of the raspberry bush, which requires appropriate trellising.

The Tayberry Mûroise thrives in cool, deep, loose, and well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral (ideal pH between 5.5 and 7). It tolerates most garden soil types provided that 'they are not too alkaline or constantly waterlogged.'Before planting, enriching the soil with well-rotted compost improves its structure, water retention, and fertility. Organic mulch (bark, straw) keeps the base cool and gradually nourishes the soil. Avoid overly compact or clayey soils without prior amendment, as they would suffocate the roots.