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.
12-18 inch bare root plant.
Key Characteristics of Prime-Ark® Freedom Blackberry Thorn-free Plants:
Origin: 'Prime-Ark® Freedom' is a thorn-free, primocane-fruiting blackberry cultivar developed by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture fruit breeding program under the direction of Dr. John R. Clark. It was released in 2013 and is notable as the world's first thorn-free primocane-fruiting blackberry with shipping quality. The cross was made in 2006, with selections evaluated in subsequent years at the Fruit Research Station in Clarksville, Arkansas.
Patent Status: 'Prime-Ark® Freedom' is protected by U.S. Plant Patent PP26,990which is held by University of Arkansas at Little Rock until 2032-08-21.This patent restricts unauthorized propagation and sale of the cultivar.
Berry Production: Produces large to very large-sized, firm, glossy black berries with a sweet flavor. It is known for its high yields on both primocanes (first-year canes) and floricanes (second-year canes). The primocane crop typically ripens in late summer to fall, and the floricane crop ripens in early summer.
Ripening Time: As a primocane-fruiting variety, 'Prime-Ark® Freedom' offers an extended ripening season. The primocane crop typically begins ripening in July and can continue until frost. Floricane fruit ripens earlier in the season, usually in June.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Prime-Ark® Freedom' features erect, thornless canes that typically reach a height of 4 to 5 feet and a spread of 3 to 4 feet.Its upright growth habit makes it suitable for hedgerows or planting without trellising, although support may be beneficial with heavy fruit loads.
Flowers: Produces white to slightly pinkish, typical blackberry flowers in the spring on floricanes and in the summer on primocanes.It is self-pollinating.
Hardiness:Generally hardy in USDA Zones 6a through 10b, showing good adaptability to a range of climates, including those with heat and humidity. Some sources suggest it can be grown in Zone 5 with protection.
Pollination: 'Prime-Ark® Freedom' is self-pollinating and does not require another blackberry variety for fruit set.
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 slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5). Good drainage is crucial to prevent root diseases.
Watering:Needs consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruit development.Regular watering is important, particularly during dry periods.
Pruning: Primocanes can be managed in a few ways: either tipped to encourage branching and a larger fall crop, or cut to the ground in late winter to focus solely on the fall crop. Floricanes should be removed after they have fruited in the early summer.
Uses: The large, sweet berries are excellent for:
Fresh eating
Jams and preserves
Freezing
Baking and desserts
Commercial production due to its extended season and shipping quality.
Wildlife Value:The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
Ornamental Value:The thornless canes and attractive foliage, along with the production of berries, can add ornamental value to the edible landscape.
Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Prime-Ark® Freedom' exhibits good disease resistance, including resistance to rust, and good tolerance to heat and humidity.
