US blackberry production: U-pick farms are growing in Texas

While Texas is famous for its Ruby Red grapefruit and is the nation’s top producer of watermelons, some well-known but lesser-grown fruits like blackberries, blueberries and raspberries are finding their place in its fields, orchards and gardens. “The lesser-known fruit crop with the most acres and most continued growth in the state would be blackberries,” said Larry Stein, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist based in Uvalde. “New Arkansas varieties of blackberries have been performing well and this year is no exception. And the new Arkansas varieties can be grown pretty much throughout the state.” Brazos, Rosborough and Kiowa blackberries are also grown in the state. Blueberries are another popular fruit for growers, but Stein said blueberry production is “mainly an East Texas thing.” They can, however, do well in other areas with more acidic soils, as long as drainage is good. According to AgriLife Extension horticulturists, the best blueberry for Texas is the ...