Should I Prune 1st Yr Blackberries?

Question

I planted triple crown thornless blackberries in spring. They grew very well. There are a couple dozen canes, all of which are a couple feet long. what now? Should I cut them back for winter, if so how long should they be? I plan on putting a chicken wire fence around them and stuffing with dry leaves as I read they aren’t cold hardy. I live in zone 5b and we are expecting a colder than average winter. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Answer 1

Prune out canes that have fruited (second year canes) in late summer. In spring, tip prune to increase branching. These articles should help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blackberries/blackberry-pruning.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blackberries/blackberry-bushes-in-winter.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/blackberries/harvesting-blackberries.htm