Rubus idaeus 'Heritage' - 'Heritage' Raspberry

Cultivate tradition and abundance with the 'Heritage' Raspberry, an extremely popular and reliable ever-bearing variety that spoils you with two generous harvests per year! This vigorous and robust raspberry bush produces large to medium-sized red raspberries that are firm and exquisitely flavoured. Whether for fresh eating, jams, or baking, 'Heritage' is the top choice for reliable, delicious production throughout the summer and fall seasons.

Harvest: Production & Flavours

The 'Heritage' Raspberry is an exceptional cultivar, offering a substantial first harvest in mid-summer, followed by an even more abundant fruiting in the fall. Its versatility makes it a favourite for all gourmet desires.

• Harvest Period: July (first harvest) and September - Frost (second harvest)
• Visual Description: Medium to large raspberries, vibrant and attractive red, very firm and plump.
• Flavour Profile: Sweet and balanced, with a classic raspberry flavour and juicy flesh. Their firmness is a major asset for handling and storage.
• Culinary Uses: Excellent fresh, in jams, jellies, pies, muffins, smoothies, or frozen for extended use.

Planting Guide

To ensure the success of your 'Heritage' raspberry bush, follow these key steps:

1. Ideal Location: Plant your 'Heritage' in full sun to maximize the double fruit production. A well-ventilated site is also important to prevent diseases. Installing support (wires, trellis) is highly recommended to support the canes laden with fruit.
2. Soil Preparation: This raspberry bush prefers well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 6.8). Generously amend with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
3. Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill with your amended soil mix and gently tamp down. Space plants approximately 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 feet) apart and allow 1.5 to 2.5 metres (5 to 8 feet) between rows.
4. Pollination:
   • Type: Self-fertile; 'Heritage' does not require another raspberry bush to produce fruit.
   • Suggested Partners: No partners are necessary.

Care Guide

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruiting periods as well as during dry spells. Regular and deep watering is crucial.
• Fertilization: In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer or one specific to small fruits. An annual application of compost around the base of the plants is also very beneficial.
• Pruning: As an ever-bearing variety, 'Heritage' can be pruned in two ways:
  • For two harvests: After the first harvest in July, cut the canes that have fruited down to the ground. Leave the new green canes that will produce in the fall and the following summer.
  • For one large fall harvest: Cut all canes down to the ground in late fall or early spring. This method simplifies pruning and concentrates energy for a more abundant late-season harvest.
• Protection:
  • Against Birds: Raspberries are highly appealing to birds; bird netting may be necessary as harvests approach.
  • Winter Protection: Thanks to its good hardiness (Zone 3), 'Heritage' generally does not require additional winter protection. A good layer of mulch at the base of the plant will help insulate the soil.