When to Plant Blackberries in Sullivan County, TN
Blackberries are vigorous bramble fruits that produce sweet-tart berries on thorny or thornless canes. They are prolific producers and relatively low-maintenance once established.
Sullivan County, Tennessee is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 179 days.
At an elevation of 3,986 feet, Sullivan County receives approximately 46.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Blackberries during the growing season.
Sullivan County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-7.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Blackberries Planting Timeline — Sullivan County, TN
Blackberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 14 | May 14 – May 28 |
· 24" apart · Rows 72" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
365–730 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
179 days
Growing Tips for Sullivan County
Plant bare-root canes in spring. Provide a sturdy trellis system. Prune out spent fruiting canes after harvest. New canes fruit in their second year (floricanes).
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Blackberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Blackberries in Sullivan County, TN?
Sullivan County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Blackberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Sullivan County, TN?
Sullivan County, Tennessee is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 19.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Sullivan County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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