Boysenberry McNichols Choice
Notify MeRubus Boysenberry McNichols Choice is a vigorous, thornless boysenberry variety bred in New Zealand for high yields and robust flavour. It produces large, deep purple-black berries with a rich, sweet taste, ideal for fresh eating, desserts, and preserving. Flowering in late Spring, the fruit ripens through mid to late Summer on second-year canes.
Ideal for productive gardens, berry rows, or espalier systems, it suits cottage, lifestyle block, and edible garden styles.
Plant in full sun with well-draining, fertile soil. Water regularly during flowering and fruiting, and train canes along a trellis or wire support. Space plants approximately 1.5m apart to ensure good airflow and easy maintenance.
Mature size: Vigorous and spreading, with canes growing up to 2m long and a spread of around 1.5–2m.
Trimming: Prune in late winter once the plant has finished fruiting. Cut all canes that have fruited back to ground level, as they will not fruit again. Select 6–8 strong new canes from the current season and tie them to a support structure, ensuring good spacing for airflow and sunlight.
Deadheading: Not necessary, but removing any shrivelled fruit or spent flower remnants can help keep the plant tidy and reduce disease risk.
Fertilising: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertiliser to promote strong growth and fruiting. Apply a second feed after harvest to support the development of next season’s canes. Improve soil health annually with compost or well-rotted organic matter.
Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during flowering and fruiting. Deep watering is more effective than frequent light watering. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the crown.
Pest Control: Monitor for aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars on new growth. Treat early with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Birds may target ripening berries—use netting to protect the crop.
Disease Management: Provide good air circulation through proper cane spacing and pruning to prevent fungal diseases like botrytis and cane blight. Remove any diseased or dead material promptly. Ensure soil is well-drained to avoid root rot, and avoid wetting foliage when watering.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
