How to Propagate Blackberries by Tip Layering

Tip layering is the simplest and most reliable method for propagating blackberries. It exploits the plant's natural tendency to root at the cane tip when it touches soil — the same mechanism that causes spreading problems in untrained plants. With a small amount of deliberate management, this natural rooting habit produces a well-rooted new plant in six to eight weeks, ready to transplant and establish in its new growing position. No special equipment, hormone powders or propagation facilities are required.

Selecting the right cane

Choose a healthy, vigorous current-year primocane (a new cane that grew this spring and summer) that is long enough to arch over and reach the ground. The cane should be free from disease or pest damage. Avoid canes that are very thin or obviously weak — the quality of the parent cane influences the vigour of the new plant.

The layering process

Prepare a small planting hole in the soil about 10 cm deep, approximately 30–40 cm away from the parent plant — roughly where the tip of the arching cane reaches. Arch the cane tip downward and push the very tip (the last 10–15 cm of the cane) into the hole, with the tip pointing downward into the soil. Fill the hole back in and firm the soil over the buried tip. If needed, use a short length of wire bent into a U-shape to pin the buried section in place and stop it springing out. The buried tip will produce roots over the next six to eight weeks.

Separating and transplanting the new plant

In October or November, new shoots will be visible emerging from the soil at the layering point — this indicates that roots have formed. Sever the connecting cane between the parent plant and the new rooted tip, cutting cleanly with sterile secateurs. The new plant can be left in place and transplanted the following spring, or lifted immediately and potted into a container of compost to grow on over winter in a sheltered spot before planting out in March or April.