Zmeur de toamna timpuriu - Rubus idaeus 'Autumn First' (cultura biologica)

Rubus idaeus 'Autumn First' , also known as the "Autumn First raspberry" or Primeberry® Autumn First® , is an everbearing raspberry cultivar of the Rosaceae family, developed by Lubera (Switzerland) and East Malling Research (UK). This variety is prized for its large, aromatic fruit and long flowering from summer to autumn, making it an excellent choice for gardens, farms or fruit production. It is an improvement on the variety 'Autumn Bliss', offering larger fruit and superior taste.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are pinnate, composed of 5-7 leaflets, light green , with serrated edges. They are arranged alternately on the stems and have a slightly rough texture, typical of raspberries. The foliage is healthy and resistant to disease.
• Flowers : The flowers are small, white, with 5 petals, grouped in short racemes, appearing from May-June on new shoots. They are self-fertile, pollinated by bees and flies, and attract pollinators.
• Fruits : The fruits are large, conical , of a vibrant reddish-pink color , with a juicy, sweet, and very aromatic pulp. They are excellent for fresh consumption, jams, freezing or desserts. Flowering begins in July and continues until November or until the first frost, producing on annual shoots.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows up to 1.2-1.5 meters tall and 1-1.5 meters wide , with a compact, upright habit, ideal for small spaces or containers.
• Vigor : Moderately fast growth, with healthy, robust stems, and no sharp thorns (they only have minor bumps). It produces fruit on annual shoots (primocanes), being a remontant raspberry.
• Type : Deciduous, evergreen shrub with a superficial root system that forms root suckers that can be controlled with root barriers.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) for maximum production, but will tolerate partial shade , where fruit may be less abundant. Partial shade is beneficial in hot climates.
• Soil : Requires fertile, well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-6.5), rich in organic matter. Clay soils require improved drainage, and raised beds are recommended.
• Watering : Water regularly , keeping the soil moist but not soggy. During dry periods, water every 7-10 days, more often for young plants or in containers.
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 4-8 (down to -30°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Tolerates late frosts well, but mulch the roots in severe winters.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : Very resistant to stem diseases and worms, due to rigorous selection. Attracts bees and butterflies, but is not resistant to deer or rabbits.
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) in the spring and a fertilizer high in potassium (e.g. 5-10-20) during flowering. Excessive nitrogen fertilization can reduce fruit production.
• Pruning : As a remontant raspberry, cut all stems 5-10 cm from the ground in February-March to stimulate new shoots, which will produce fruit the same year. Remove unwanted canes to control spread.
• Pests and Diseases : Rarely affected, but may attract mites or aphids. Inspect regularly and use insecticidal soap if necessary. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
• Propagation : Easily propagated by rhizomes or root cuttings taken in spring.
• Support : Plant near a trellis or support wires to make harvesting easier and keep the stems tidy.

Use

The 'Autumn First' raspberry is ideal for fruit gardens , vegetable gardens , containers or fruit hedges . Its large, aromatic fruits are perfect for fresh consumption, jams, juices, desserts or freezing. It combines well with other berries, such as 'Reuben' blackberries or 'Marastar' raspberries, for a productive and aesthetic corner. It is suitable for amateur gardeners or small farms due to its easy maintenance and high productivity.

Origin

Developed by Lubera (Switzerland) and East Malling Research (UK) , 'Autumn First' is part of the Primeberry® series, created to improve remontant raspberry varieties. It is a modern selection, launched for its large fruits, excellent taste and disease resistance, being an evolution of the famous variety 'Autumn Bliss'.

Pot diameter: 13 cm
Height with pot included: approx. 35 cm

In the cold season the plants are shortened and leafless.