Performance of Wild Blackberry species in Kenya under conventional production

Blackberry (Rubus L. sub-genus Rubus Watson) fruits grow wild in Kenya, though in some parts of the world they have been domesticated and are cultivated. There is potential for their adoption in Kenya, however this requires that information is available about the growth, yield and quality of fruits. Four wild blackberry species were investigated, i.e., Rubus volkensis, Rubus steunderi, Rubus apetalus and Rubus pinnatus. One cultivated species Rubus fruiticosus was included for comparison. Of the four species Rubus apetalus had the highest numbers of branches, the highest number of canes emerging from the ground, and also the largest cane diameter. Rubus fruiticosus had the highest number of flowers and fruits while Rubus apetalus had flowers, The other three species had not flowered by the time data were collected. It is expected that the findings of this study will not only contribute to the scientific knowledge in the area of wild blackberry production but also in enhancing and promoting its cultivation.