Loch Tay blackberry is an early-ripening hybrid developed by the Scottish Crop Research Institute. The berries have a glossy black color and an oval shape resembling raspberries. The fruit is large, weighing 5 to 12 grams, with a firm skin and juicy flesh, possessing a pleasant sweet dessert flavor with a distinct fruity aroma. Due to its excellent taste and rich sweet-tart flavor, Loch Tay blackberry is popular among both amateur gardeners and commercial growers.
This variety has high yields — up to 12 kg per bush starting from the third season. Harvesting begins at the end of July and lasts about four weeks. Loch Tay is suitable for cultivation in open ground and protected environments, and it withstands transport and storage well, making it highly demanded for fresh market sales and processing. The variety has moderate resistance to diseases and pests, so it is recommended to conduct spring preventive treatments on plants.
Winter hardiness of Loch Tay blackberry is moderate: in regions with temperatures below -20°C, additional winter protection is required for the shrubs. This variety also has good berry retention after harvest, which allows maintaining their quality and flavor for a longer period. Due to its early ripening, high yield, and excellent taste, Loch Tay blackberry is an ideal choice for cultivation on home plots and commercial gardens.
