The Bristol Raspberry, 'Rubus 'Bristol', is a fruit that is black and large with attractive, fairly glossy skin and firm flesh. Berries have excellent quality and good flavor and are good for canning and freezing as well as fresh eating. Bristol’s upright growth and cluster formation make its berries extremely easy to pick. Firm berries can be handled without bleeding. It is very hardy, high producing, vigorous and ripens in mid-July. Bristol shows tolerance to powdery mildew.
The berries are versatile and can be used as fresh fruit, in preserves, or in pies and pastries. Raspberries may be grown successfully at an elevation as high as 7,000 feet. They do best in full sun on non-alkaline, fertile loam soil. However, they may be grown in partial shade or under other environmental constraints. Natural protection against strong winter winds are provided in some valleys, but in other areas it is necessary to provide artificial protection during winter months. Although a well-drained soil is essential for success, a sandy soil will need to have plenty of organic matter incorporated in preparation. Raspberries need a plentiful supply of moisture throughout the growing season. Raspberries take little space, live for years and produce crops the second season after planting. Birds also love the fruit, so you may have to share the harvest.