NATCHEZ

The Natchez blackberry variety is one of the best representatives of early-ripening types, distinguished by high yield and outstanding taste qualities. This American-selected variety forms a strong, vigorous bush with shoots 2 to 6 meters long, which are completely thornless and trailing. Bushes reach a height of up to 2.5 meters and exhibit high growth vigor. Flowering begins in the second half of May, with white flowers having 5-6 petals. Natchez berries are large, oval or cylindrical in shape, weighing 15 to 20 grams, and are borne in clusters of 10 to 30 fruits. The fruits have a rich, glossy black color, juicy, sweet, and aromatic flesh with a slight tartness and noble bitterness. Berries are firm, do not shed during ripening, have good transportability, and are resistant to mechanical damage. The ripening period for Natchez blackberries begins at the end of June and continues until September, allowing harvest over a period of one and a half months. Fruit production is spread out over time, with the peak harvest occurring two to three weeks after the start of ripening. Yield from a two-year-old bush can reach up to 40 liters. The variety is characterized by high resistance to diseases and pests, including gray mold, as well as moderate drought tolerance. The variety has good cold hardiness—up to -25°C; however, in regions with harsher winters, it is recommended to bend the shoots to the ground and cover them with non-woven material and snow for frost protection. Natchez prefers sunny, well-lit areas with fertile, loose soils, which promote vigorous bush formation and stable yields. Due to its commercial qualities and resistance to adverse factors, this variety is widely used both in commercial berry cultivation and in private gardens. Its berries are suitable for fresh consumption, as well as for processing into jams, jellies, and freezing, while preserving their taste and aroma qualities.