Blackberry ‘Navaho® Big and Early®’ is a remarkable thornless cultivar that stands out for its upright growth and the production of exceptionally large, sweet berries. This variety is particularly valued for its early harvest, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to enjoy fresh fruit sooner in the season. Its ease of cultivation and high productivity make it suitable for various planting scenarios, whether in traditional garden rows or in containers, allowing for versatility in gardening styles.
The canes of this blackberry are thornless, which not only simplifies the harvesting process but also enhances safety for those picking the fruit. With a self-supporting growth habit that can reach heights of approximately 2 to 3 meters, this cultivar produces glossy black berries that are notably larger—about twice the size of those from the standard Navaho® variety. The concentrated crop typically ripens in July, offering juicy and aromatic fruits that are perfect for fresh consumption, as well as for making jams, compotes, or incorporating into baked goods. The blooming of pink flowers in May serves to attract pollinators, ensuring a fruitful berry set.
In addition to its aesthetic and culinary appeal, the ‘Navaho® Big and Early®’ blackberry is known for its resilience, exhibiting good disease resistance and winter hardiness down to -20°C. This self-fertile plant requires minimal maintenance, as its upright growth negates the need for trellising, and it only requires the pruning of fruiting canes during the winter months. This makes it an excellent choice for DIY gardens, container gardening, or even as a compact edible hedge, with a height of up to 300 cm (10 ft) and a spread of about 100 cm (3.3 ft).
Growing Information
Plant blackberry bushes in a sunny position in any well drained soil. Incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost into the ground prior to planting. When growing blackberry plants, support the stems on a framework of wires stretched between sturdy 1.8m (6') posts, or trained against a trellis or wall.
