Exposure

• Raspberries prefer elevated locations along gentle slopes or on the side of small hills. According to a University of Kentucky publication, raspberries should be planted on the north-facing slope of hills whenever possible. A slight incline provides the plants with some shelter from wind damage and inclement weather conditions. It also minimizes the threat of flooding that often occurs at the base of hills and areas with low elevation. Raspberry plants should be planted in areas with full exposure to sunlight, at least 6 to 8 hours a day, but they can also grow in partial shade.
  
  

Soil Composition

• Testing the contents and chemistry of the soil at the growing site can reveal potentially harmful imbalances or deficiencies that could hinder the growth of raspberries. Public universities and private companies often offer to test soil samples for agricultural suitability for a fee. Raspberries thrive in soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. An excessively acidic or alkaline pH can inhibit the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and minerals from the soil, which inevitably reduces fruit yield and decreases the plant's growth rate. Powdered limestone and some fertilizers can be applied to safely alter pH levels. Raspberry plants also require a significant amount of organic matter in their growing soil to produce a quality crop of fruit. Manure or compost can enrich the soil and enhance its ability to support a crop of raspberries.
  
  

Moisture Availibility

• The availability of moisture is one of the most influential factors that impacts the health and yield of raspberry plants. According to an Oregon State University publication, raspberry plants require 1 to 2 inches of of rain per week during the summer season. They should be watered regularly when there is insufficient rain. While the growing soil should retain some moisture to prevent the plants from drying out, it is equally important that soil does not become saturated. Waterlogged soil fosters the growth of pathogenic fungus that can cause a variety of serious diseases. Peat moss and other materials can be mixed with heavy or clay soils to increase water drainage. Standing water is extremely detrimental to raspberries --- it can cause permanent damage in a matter of days by drowning their root system.
  
  

Cultivation Techniques

• Proper cultivation techniques are also integral to establishing the ideal growing conditions for raspberry plants. Weeds and undesirable plants should be removed regularly to prevent them from competing with the raspberry crop. Even if weeds aren't numerous enough to threaten the survival of a raspberry plant, they can diminish the plant's fruit yield by stealing nutrients and minerals from the growing soil. Raspberry plants should also be spaced far enough apart to prevent them from competing with one another for resources. Spacing individual plants 2 to 3 feet or more apart ensures sufficient air circulation, which helps prevent fungal growth, and provides enough room for the plants' roots to expand laterally.