These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
Minimum of 3 plants per order.
Polka Ever-Bearing Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus 'Polka')
Key Characteristics
Origin: 'Polka' is a popular ever-bearing (primocane-fruiting) red raspberry cultivar developed in Poland and introduced in the United States around the mid-1990s. It is known for its high yields of large, flavorful berries and its adaptability.
Patent Status: 'Polka' Red Raspberry was released over 25 years ago, so it is unlikely to be under active patent in the United States, and we could not find a record of it ever having been, however, it may be protected in other regions of the world.
Berry Production: Produces large, firm, bright red berries with a very good, sweet, and aromatic flavor. It is known for its consistently high yields on the primocanes (first-year canes) in the late summer and fall. In some climates, it may also produce a smaller crop on the floricanes (second-year canes) in early summer. The berries hold well on the plant and have good shelf life.
Ripening Time: As an ever-bearing variety, 'Polka' typically produces its main crop on the primocanes starting in **mid to late summer (July-August)** and continuing until frost. If overwintered, the floricanes will produce a smaller, earlier crop in **early summer (June-July)**.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Polka' has a vigorous, upright growth habit with relatively few thorns compared to some other red raspberry varieties. The canes typically reach a height of 4 to 6 feet. It spreads moderately by suckers.
Flowers: Produces small, white, rose-like flowers in the spring and summer on both primocanes and floricanes.
Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **4 through 8**, showing good cold tolerance.
Pollination: Red raspberries are self-fertile, and 'Polka' does not require a pollinator to set fruit. However, having other red raspberry varieties nearby can sometimes improve overall pollination and yield.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal fruit production and flavor.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0-6.5) is ideal. Good drainage is crucial.
Watering: Needs consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruit development. Water deeply and regularly, particularly during dry periods.
Fertilizing: Benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring. For ever-bearing types, a second lighter application after the first primocane crop can be beneficial.
Pruning:** For a single, late-season crop on primocanes, all canes can be cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring. For two crops, allow some of the strongest primocanes to overwinter; these will fruit in early summer and should be removed after fruiting. New primocanes will then produce the main fall crop. Thin primocanes to about 4-6 strong canes per linear foot of row.
Uses: The flavorful berries are excellent for:Fresh eatingFreezingMaking jams, jellies, and preservesBaking in pies and dessertsCommercial production due to its high yields and good fruit quality.Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds and other wildlife.Ornamental Value: While primarily grown for fruit, the foliage and bright red berries can add some ornamental value. Its relatively upright and manageable growth habit is also a plus.Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Polka' is generally considered to have good resistance to many common raspberry diseases, including root rot and some leaf diseases. It is also reported to have good tolerance to raspberry aphids, which can transmit viruses.
