Why do raspberries form so many runners?
Some gardeners might think that the raspberries want to annoy them because they spread so quickly all over the garden.
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However, the raspberry only sends so many runners in all directions so that it can find sufficient nutrients and, above all, moisture.
To prevent the raspberries from spreading, however, it is not enough to provide enough moisture and nutrients. In addition to choosing modern raspberry varieties that have fewer runners, creating a root barrier is the best solution.
Materials for root barriers
- Rhizome barrier film for bamboo
- Pond liner
- Lawn edging stones
- Old plastic boards
- Sheet metal pieces
- Old roof tiles
Create root lock
Raspberries are shallow roots, but the root barrier should not be placed too low in the soil. It should be 40 centimeters to keep the roots under control.
Pierce a 40 centimeter deep crevice in the ground around the rows of raspberries or raspberry hedges. The barrier should be placed around the rows as the later row of raspberries will be.
Do not make the lock too tight. Then the plants no longer receive enough moisture and nutrients that they would otherwise get from the runners.
Be sure to mulch raspberry plants with a root barrier
If you use special film for bamboo or similar plants, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Put all other materials 40 centimeters into the floor and about five centimeters above the floor into the gap. Firmly press the soil down and sludge it with a garden hose.
In the case of a root barrier, be sure to lay a mulch blanket between the plants. This ensures that the plants get enough moisture and nutrients.
Tips & Tricks
Even if the raspberry plants have already spread over the whole garden, it is worthwhile to create a root barrier afterwards. Make sure, however, that you carefully and continuously remove all roots outside the barrier. Only then can the perennials be kept somewhat in check.
