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.
Prelude Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus 'Prelude')
Key Characteristics
Origin: 'Prelude' is an early-bearing red raspberry cultivar developed by Cornell University in Geneva, New York, and released in 1998. It is a cross between 'Boyne' and NY8812-2. It was bred for its very early ripening, good flavor, and dual-cropping potential.
Patent Status: 'Prelude' Red Raspberry was protected by **U.S. Plant Patent PP11,747**, held by Cornell Research Foundation Inc until it expired 2018-10-06; therefore, it is no longer under patent protection and can be freely propagated commercially.
Berry Production: Produces medium to large, bright red, firm berries with a good, sweet flavor. It is known for its very early and abundant yields on both floricanes (second-year canes) and primocanes (first-year canes). The primocane crop ripens in late summer/early fall, while the floricane crop is exceptionally early.
Ripening Time: 'Prelude' is notable for its **very early floricane crop**, ripening significantly earlier than most other red raspberry varieties, typically in late spring to early summer (June). The **primocane crop** ripens in late summer to early fall (August-September), providing a second harvest.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Prelude' has a vigorous, upright growth habit with moderately thorny canes that 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 floricanes and primocanes.
Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **4 through 8**, showing good cold tolerance.
Pollination: Red raspberries are self-fertile, and 'Prelude' 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 for both crops. Water deeply and regularly, particularly during dry periods.
Fertilizing: Benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring. A second lighter application after the early floricane crop can help support the primocane crop.
Pruning:For dual cropping, remove floricanes after they have finished fruiting in early summer. Thin primocanes in late winter or early spring to about 4-6 strong canes per linear foot of row. For a single, late-season crop, all canes can be cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring.
Uses:The flavorful berries are excellent for:Fresh eating, especially due to its very early availability.FreezingMaking jams, jellies, and preservesBaking in pies and dessertsExtending the raspberry season with its early and late crops.
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 manageable size is also a plus.
Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Prelude' is reported to have good resistance to several common raspberry diseases, including root rot. It is also considered relatively tolerant to raspberry aphids.
