[JohnB47]

I have a gap in my line of Tulameen raspberry bushes (planted early last spring) and I want to fill it using a sucker from another one that's now producing loads.

Do I do that now, or take the sucker off later in the autumn or early next year? I know I won't get any fruit on it until next year anyway but I want to want to give myself the best chance of getting some then.

I have a feeling that now would be best, 'cos it would give the sucker the longest time in its new position.

Any advice? Oh and any general tips on digging up and replanting the sucker?

[Trillium]

Generally you'd wait until the plant is dormant in fall, but in such situations, I've dug things up at the wrong times. First sever the sucker from the parent with a sharp spade (or secateurs if you've dug about to find the connection) and do it as close to the parent as possible, leaving the youngster with lots of root. Then dig a nice clump of soil with the root intact and move into place. I find I get a better respond rate with adequate soil around the roots. Water in well and water twice a week until you're sure the youngster is doing well on its own. Hold off on fertilizing the transplant until a bit later.  It can't adapt plus burst into growth at the same time.

[JohnB47]

Thanks. That's great. I think I'll give it a go now. I'm hardly going to kill the parent plant so the worst that can happen is that the sucker won't take and I can have another go later in the year.

Cheers.