Loch Ness blackberry seedlings
Loch Ness is a seedless variety of blackberry, very productive and resistant to diseases, large
fruits with excellent taste, which have a very long shelf life in fresh condition.
The Loch Ness blackberry is an old and tried-and-tested variety that is at the top of European production due to its reliable yield, strong growth and excellent fruit quality.
It bears large, shiny black berries that stay fresh for a long time, and their taste is almost identical to real wild blackberries. That is why it is in demand both on the domestic and foreign markets, both for fresh use and for freezing.
This variety shows an enviable resistance to diseases and cold, so it fits into the traditional way of growing blackberries in our area, without unnecessary complications.
Due to its long harvest period and high percentage of dry matter, Loch Ness remains one of the most reliable choices for professional producers and households.
Loch Ness in Serbia in the lower regions (Pomoravlje, Mačva…) arrives for picking around July 15, and in the higher regions of western Serbia from 10-15. July. Harvesting of fruits takes longer than other varieties, i.e. it lasts until the end of September.
Loch Ness in Serbia in the lower regions (Pomoravlje, Mačva…) arrives for picking around July 15, and in the higher regions of western Serbia from 10-15. July. Harvesting of fruits takes longer than other varieties, i.e. it lasts until the end of September.
Loch Ness is the best and most sought-after blackberry variety in the EU for fresh consumption
use in small packages (125 and 250 gr). The fruits can stay fresh for up to 12 days at a temperature of +2 to +4°C and at the same time, they can withstand transport to distant markets such as the EU and Russia. For fresh sale, the fruits are harvested at 60% of the physiological stage of maturity directly into small containers or crates, and as soon as possible, they go to the sub-cooling and to the market.
Loch Ness is one of the best blackberry varieties, as it retains its black color over time
freezing, which makes it the best variety for industrial processing. When harvesting well-ripened fruits, this percentage is negligible. It is an advantage for cold storage, because they do not have to freeze it immediately after arriving in the cold storage because it can stay in the cold for a long time before freezing. According to all the characteristics of the fruit, it is unique and the best on the market.
Loch Ness has excellent tolerance to Purple Spot and Blight, with slight susceptibility to Botrytis (Gray Rot) in case of poor and inadequate protection. During flowering, it is necessary to protect against gray rot 3-4 times, since it blooms for more than 50 days. It is one of the most frost-resistant varieties during the winter period. It is recommended to plant up to 700 m above sea level, and if it is higher, choose a plot that is sheltered.
Loch Ness is a seedless variety of blackberry with semi-erect shoots that are easy to grow
manipulates. Planting is done in autumn or spring at a distance of 1 x 2.5 m (4,000 units/ha) or 1 x 3 m (3,330 units/ha), depending on the application of mechanization.
It is best to use certified container seedlings that are planted on prepared soil, so that the neck of the root sinks slightly into the ground, i.e. it is on the surface. Then cover with fine soil, gently press with your hands
(not with the feet) and pour with HUMISTART 0 solution
After the selection of the plot, the soil is first properly sampled in several places, at a depth of 0-30 cm and
analysis, based on which detailed recommendations for soil preparation are given. The best is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5), loose, humus soil, rich in nutrients. After plowing the plot, over the entire surface of the plot,
spread lime, if necessary, and some soil insecticides (Galition Forte 20 kg/ha or Radar Versus 30 kg/ha).
After the selection of the plot, the soil is first properly sampled in several places, at a depth of 0-30 cm and
analysis, based on which detailed recommendations for soil preparation are given. The best is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5), loose, humus soil, rich in nutrients. After plowing the plot, over the entire surface of the plot,
spread lime, if necessary, and some soil insecticides (Galition Forte 20 kg/ha or Radar Versus 30 kg/ha).
Irrigation should be provided through the “drip by drop” system, which is also used for feeding with water-soluble fertilizers, and in the case of severe droughts, it is recommended to provide a system of sprinklers (watering sprinklers) that are used exclusively through the nodes when the plants cool down.
Sprinklers ensure uniform irrigation of the entire soil surface, because blackberries have a very strong and large root system. Application of the irrigation system is necessary, because it is a variety that bears fruit abundantly (in the conditions of Serbia and until the end of September).
Regular feeding with increased content of potassium and calcium, moderate nitrogen should be applied from the beginning of fruit ripening until the end of August, and from the beginning of September on several occasions potassium sulfate fertilizers are used in order to achieve a higher percentage of dry matter in the fruit.
The necessary agrotechnical measure in the region of Serbia is also shadowed. A net of at least 40% shade is needed in order to reduce solar radiation by 40%, reduce temperatures by 5-6°C and avoid fruit burns, improve air circulation, protect against possible ice (hail) and provide workers with easier and more efficient work throughout the day, thus increasing work performance. Yields increase up to 40%, and the quality of the fruit is incomparably better.
Planting varietal pure, certified and healthy planting material and applying all agrotechnical measures in an average year, in a full crop from the third year can ensure a yield of 30 – 40 t/ha.
