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.
Origin: 'Prime-Ark® Horizon' (also known as ‘APF-268’) is a primocane-fruiting blackberry cultivar developed by the University of Arkansas and released in 2020. It is the sixth primocane-fruiting release from their breeding program and is intended to complement 'Prime-Ark® 45'.
Patent Status: 'Prime-Ark® Horizon' Blackberry is protected by **U.S. Plant Patent 34,867**. As of my last update, the specific patent number has not been issued but is pending. Unauthorized propagation is prohibited.
Berry Production: Produces very high yields of large (averaging 7.8 grams, with floricane berries often larger than 10 grams), firm, glossy black berries with a good, light aromatic and sweet flavor (averaging 10% soluble solids). It has excellent postharvest potential, with good firmness retention and limited leakage and decay in storage, comparable to 'Prime-Ark® 45'.
Ripening Time: As a primocane-fruiting variety, 'Prime-Ark® Horizon' produces two potential crops. The **floricane crop** ripens in **mid-June** in Arkansas, similar to 'Ouachita' but a little later than 'Prime-Ark® 45'. The **primocane crop** ripens early, with the first harvest averaging **August 4th** in Arkansas, slightly before 'Prime-Ark® 45', and can continue until mid-October, offering a long fruiting season of over 60 days.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Prime-Ark® Horizon' has an erect to semi-erect growth habit with reduced thorns compared to 'Prime-Ark® 45' (around 45% lower thorn density on canes). Canes can reach a moderate height and may benefit from support due to the heavy fruit load, especially on floricanes.
Flowers: Produces typical blackberry flowers on both floricanes and primocanes.
Hardiness: Winter hardiness is reported to be comparable to 'Ouachita', showing limited injury down to 1°F. The chilling requirement is estimated to be around 300 hours. It is generally recommended for USDA Zones 6-9b.
Pollination: 'Prime-Ark® Horizon' is self-pollinating (self-fertile) and does not require another blackberry variety for fruit production. However, having other blackberry varieties nearby may still enhance overall yields.
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 rich in organic matter.
Watering: Consistent watering is crucial, especially during flowering and fruit development.
Fertilizing: Follow general recommendations for blackberry fertilization.
Pruning:** For dual cropping, prune out floricanes after they have finished fruiting. For primocane fruiting, canes that fruited in the fall can be pruned to the ground in late winter. Tipping primocanes can encourage lateral branching and potentially increase the fall crop.
Uses: Excellent for:Fresh eating due to its large size, good flavor, and firmness.Commercial production due to its high yields, extended fruiting season, and good postharvest handling.Home gardens for those wanting a reliable primocane-fruiting blackberry with reduced thorns.Freezing and processing into jams, jellies, and other products.Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds. Netting may be needed to protect the crop.Ornamental Value: The upright growth habit and large berries can add visual appeal. The reduced thorns make it more manageable in the home garden.Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Prime-Ark® Horizon' has shown good plant health with no observed orange rust or anthracnose in trials.
