History
~ Blackberries are in the Rosaceae family
~ Blackberries belong to the Genus Rubus with thousands of species and varieties.
~ In 1753, Linnaeus named two blackberry species.
~ From 1910-1914, Focke classified blackberries.
~ Greek writer, Theophrastus, mentioned blackberries in 370 BCE
~ 16th century doctors used blackberries to treat eye infections.
~ The “Evergreen” blackberry was domesticated in 1691.
~ The “Evergreen” blackberry was introduced to the US in 1860.
~ The “Himalayan” blackberry was introduced to the US in 1895.
~ The “Thornless Evergreen” was discovered in 1930.
Current State
~ Two species of blackberries are on the federal noxious weed list.
~ 2,4D and glyphosate are herbicides to kill blackberries.
~ A new vinegar-based herbicide is slow to kill blackberries but will completely eradicate them.
~ Blackberry production is included in the “fruit, nuts and berries” category by the USDA.
~ California, Florida and Washington are top sellers/producers in this category.
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Introduction
History
Current State
References
