Soil — How to Grow
Plant bare-root canes in winter in rows with a support wire system — two wires at 60cm and 120cm height. Summer varieties: tie in new canes during summer, cut all canes to ground after fruiting, tie in the new canes that have grown up. Autumn varieties: cut all canes to ground in February; new canes fruit the same year. Space 45cm apart; rows 1.5m apart. Feed with high-potash fertiliser in late winter. Raspberries prefer slightly acid soil and will not tolerate waterlogging.
Space plants 45cm apart
Watch Out For
Varieties (3)
Regional Growing Guides
Uk
Sow
Nov, Dec
Harvest
Jun, Jul, Aug
Smoke — In the Kitchen
Raspberries are a delicate fruit with a bright, tart sweetness that carries floral and slightly earthy undertones. When grilled or cooked over fire, their natural sugars caramelise gently, deepening the flavour and adding a subtle smokiness that complements both sweet and savoury dishes. They hold their shape well when grilled briefly, making them ideal for finishing salads, adding to glazes, or serving alongside rich meats and cheeses where their acidity can cut through heavier flavours. The texture softens but does not become mushy, allowing them to retain a pleasant bite. In BBQ contexts, raspberries can be used fresh or charred lightly on a grill to bring out complexity. They pair beautifully with herbs like rosemary or thyme and spices such as black pepper or smoked paprika. When buying raspberries, look for firm, plump berries with a vibrant red colour and no signs of mould or excessive softness. Because they are highly perishable, it is best to use them within a day or two of purchase. Store raspberries in a single layer in the fridge, ideally in a breathable container to prevent moisture buildup. For those who grow their own, raspberries thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Pruning and support are essential to maintain healthy plants and maximise fruit production. Using homegrown or seasonal raspberries in your BBQ recipes not only enhances freshness but also connects your cooking to the rhythms of the garden and the seasons, which is at the heart of Smoke & Soil’s philosophy.
Prep
No prep — fragile, handle gently. Best in a foil parcel or sauce rather than directly on the grill.
Cook
Foil parcel with a little sugar and thyme: 5–8 minutes over indirect heat. Warm raspberry sauce is beautiful with lamb, venison, and dark chocolate desserts.



