These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us. Minimum of 3 plants per order. Key Characteristics of Nova Red Raspberry: Origin: 'Nova' is a summer-bearing red raspberry cultivar (Rubus idaeus) developed at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Kentville Research Station in Nova Scotia. It was selected in 1974 from a cross between 'Ottawa' and 'Madawaska' and released in 1980. It was bred for its high yield, large fruit size, good fruit quality, and disease resistance, particularly to late yellow rust. Patent Status: 'Nova' was developed and released in 1980 by a public agricultural research institution in Canada. It is not patented and is considered a public domain variety. It can be freely propagated and distributed. Berry Production: Produces large, firm, bright red berries with a good, sweet-tart flavor. It is known for its very high and consistent yields, often outperforming other summer-bearing varieties in productivity. The berries are well-suited for fresh eating, processing, and freezing. Ripening Time: As a summer-bearing (floricane-fruiting) variety, 'Nova' produces its main crop of berries in mid-summer, typically starting in mid to late July and lasting for about 3-4 weeks. It ripens slightly later than some earlier summer-bearing varieties. Plant Size and Appearance: 'Nova' is a vigorous, upright-growing shrub with moderately thorny canes that typically reach a height of 4 to 6 feet. It produces a moderate number of suckers and has strong, sturdy canes that generally require support such as a trellis or wires, especially when laden with fruit. Flowers: Produces clusters of small, white, rose-like flowers in the spring on the previous year's canes (floricanes). These flowers are attractive to pollinators. Hardiness: 'Nova' exhibits good winter hardiness and is generally adapted to USDA Zones 4 through 8. Its Canadian origin contributes to its ability to withstand colder temperatures. Pollination: 'Nova' is self-fertile and will produce fruit without the need for another raspberry variety for pollination. However, planting multiple raspberry plants can still enhance overall yield and potentially extend the harvest season if different varieties are chosen. Growing Conditions: Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal fruit production, flavor, and disease resistance. Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5). Good drainage is essential to prevent root problems. Watering: Needs consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruit development. Regular watering is important, particularly during dry periods. Pruning: Requires annual pruning. After the summer harvest, the floricanes (canes that produced fruit) should be cut back to ground level and removed. New primocanes (first-year canes) that will produce fruit the following year should be thinned to about 4-6 strong canes per linear foot of row and supported by a trellis. Uses: The large, flavorful, and firm berries are excellent for: Fresh eating Jams, jellies, and preserves Freezing Pies, desserts, and baking Commercial production due to its high yield and good fruit quality. Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds and other wildlife. Ornamental Value: Raspberry plants can offer some visual interest with their foliage and fruit, especially when grown in well-maintained rows or along a trellis. Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Nova' is known for its good resistance to several common raspberry diseases, including late yellow rust, which was a key breeding objective. It generally shows good vigor and resilience.
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