Boysenberry vs Blackberry: Key Differences, Growing & Plant Care

Boysenberry or Blueberry might look similar on the store shelves, but they are not the same fruit. Understanding their difference can help you in everything – from choosing them for recipes to giving them the right care while planting them. 

Understanding Boysenberries and Blackberries

The Boysenberry is a hybrid of European raspberry (Rubus idaeus), European blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), American dewberry (Rubus aboriginum), and loganberry (Rubus × loganobaccus). 

Although the exact origin of the fruit is not confirmed, it is believed that Rudolph Boysen created the berries in California in 1920. 

Blackberries are a naturally occurring fruit belonging to the Rubus genus and are cultivated worldwide. These are mildly sweet and tart, with a hint of earthy flavor. Popularly found across North America, these are generally smaller and firmer than the boysenberries. 

Key Differences Between Boysenberry and Blackberry

Let us quickly understand some key differences between Boysenberry and Blueberry based on some key aspects.

Origin and Plant Classification

Boysenberry is a man-made hybrid developed in the early 20th century. It is a complex cross of blackberry, raspberry, dewberry, and loganberry.

Blackberry has a natural origin and grows wild in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and America. It belongs to the Rubus genus and has many cultivars as well. 

Fruit Size, Flavor, and Appearance

Boysenberry fruit is larger and softer than blackberries. It has a deep maroon to dark purple color, and the flavor feels sweet with a mild tang, making it rich and jam-like.

Blackberries are generally medium to large, firm, and turn glossy black when fully ripe. The juicy sweetness of the fruit is balanced with a pleasant tartness in every berry bite. 

Growth Habit and Vine Structure

Boysenberry grows as a long, trailing vine and usually needs support via trellising. The canes are flexible and not very upright, making them suitable for trained garden setups.

Blackberry plants can be erect, semi-erect, or trailing, depending on the variety. Some prefer growing a blackberry bush, while others prefer varieties that grow aggressively. 

Harvest Season and Yield

Boysenberries are harvested in late spring to early summer. The yield is moderate, and the fruits must be picked carefully because they tend to bruise easily.

Blackberries usually ripen from mid-summer to early autumn. They offer a higher and more consistent yield, especially in mature plants. 

Culinary Uses and Storage

Although the growth habits and origin of both the berries are distinct, their culinary usage is almost the same. Both Boysenberries and Blackberries can be used to make jams, syrups, pies, sauces, and desserts. 

Since the Boysenberries are soft and tender, the shelf life of this fruit is shorter and does not store well, while the firm texture of the blackberries allows them to stay fresh for a longer period of time. 

Growing Requirements for Boysenberry and Blackberry Plants

Let us quickly understand some basic growth requirements for Boysenberry and Blackberry plants.

Conditions	Boysenberry	Blackberry
Soil Type and Sunlight Needs	Requires well-draining soil type; cannot tolerate standing water. Needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sun exposure.	Grows best in soil with good drainage, but can tolerate a variety of soil conditions as well.  Full sunlight for a minimum of 8 hours is required for the best flowering.
Watering and Fertilization	Boysenberries are slightly less drought-tolerant and need consistent moisture.  A balanced, organically rich fertilizer works wonders for the plant.	Blackberries need regular watering to prevent the canes from drying out. An all-purpose granular fertilizer or a water-soluble NPK formula is best for the genus.
Spacing and Support Options	Boysenberry plants should be spaced 3 to 5 feet apart if planted in a row.	Plant blackberries 5–10 feet apart from each other when sowing the seeds in a row.

Plant Care and Maintenance Considerations

Since both plants belong to the same plant family, the care guide and maintenance considerations are also the same. Boysenberries are said to be more delicate, less cold-hardy, and more disease-prone. 

• Given the vigorous trailing nature of both plants, a sturdy support system is necessary for fuller upright growth.

• Watering requirements of Boysenberries and Blackberries are the same. Both the fruit plants need consistent moisture. Just make sure that the soil is evenly moist and permeable.

• A 3-6 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant is necessary to retain the moisture, especially during winter. Keep the mulch a little away from the crown of the plant to prevent root rot. 

Boysenberry and Blackberry have shallow root systems, hence both plants are susceptible to pests and other fungal diseases. Promote adequate air circulation and harvest the fruits at the right time.

Long-Term Maintenance and Harvest Tips

Boysenberries need regular trellising, annual pruning, and careful handling due to their soft fruit. Make sure that you keep the soil organically rich, water consistently, and harvest gently in early summer to avoid bruising.

On the other hand, BlackBerry does not need much attention. It is a low-maintenance fruit plant. Simply prune the old canes timely, control aggressive spreading, and rely on its natural stronger structure. 

Choosing Between Boysenberry and Blackberry for Your Garden

Choosing between boysenberry and blackberry depends on gardening style, space, and long-term commitment. If you are someone who craves rich dessert-like flavors, boysenberries can be ideal for your fruit garden. Blackberry suits those who want hardy plants with minimal upkeep and a reliable yield.   

Both reward patience, but the right choice depends on the time and effort one can put in ensuring that the garden stays productive and enjoyable, year after year. 

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