The Prelude raspberry is an early‑ripening red raspberry variety known for producing fruit very early in the season, often in mid‑June, with a smaller second crop possible in late summer or early fall if primocanes aren’t removed. It typically grows upright to about 4–6 feet tall with a spread of 3–5 feet, forming a vigorous shrub that fits well in berry beds or edible landscapes. The berries are medium to large and deep red, with a firm texture and a sweet‑slightly tart flavor that’s excellent for fresh eating, baking, freezing, jams, and preserves. Prelude plants are self‑fertile, so they don’t require another variety nearby to set fruit, though pollinators can still help boost yields. This raspberry shows good disease resistance, including tolerance to common issues like phytophthora root rot, which helps ensure healthy plants with basic care. T he plant is cold‑hardy in USDA zones roughly 4–8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates, especially cooler northern gardens. Prelude’s upright canes and open fruit clusters make harvesting easier, and its early crop helps jump‑start the raspberry season compared with many other cultivars. Its berries hold up well after picking, giving them a good shelf life for short‑term storage or market sales. Plants are shipped in packs of three (3). USDA Zone: 4-8 Mature Height and Spread: 5'x3' Sun: Full Sun Ripening Dates: Spring Crop Scientific Name: Rubus idaeus ‘Prelude’
