Should I stake my leggy dewberry?

Yes, providing a trellis or stake can help support long canes and keep them off the ground. This also improves airflow and reduces disease risk.

Will pruning make it grow back thicker?

Yes, pruning encourages the plant to send out side shoots, which will create a fuller, bushier appearance.

Southern dewberry: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Evaluate the amount of direct sun the plant gets.
Look for nearby plants that might be blocking the light.
Check if the canes are old and need to be pruned.

Likely causes

Low Light
Most likely
How to tell: The canes are stretching out with large gaps between the leaves. The plant is leaning heavily toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with full sun. If it is in the ground, clear away any nearby plants that might be shading it.
Lack of Pruning
Possible
How to tell: The canes are very long and thin, making the plant look sparse. This often happens when old canes are left to grow unchecked.
What to do: Prune back the long, thin canes after the harvest to encourage new, stronger growth. You can also tip prune the canes during the growing season to promote branching.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your southern dewberry

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Legginess is mostly an aesthetic issue, but it can lead to weaker canes that struggle to support fruit. It is normal for the plant to have long canes, but they should be sturdy.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent full sun and prune regularly to maintain a manageable size.

Southern dewberry: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your southern dewberry and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I stake my leggy dewberry?: Yes, providing a trellis or stake can help support long canes and keep them off the ground. This also improves airflow and reduces disease risk.
Will pruning make it grow back thicker?: Yes, pruning encourages the plant to send out side shoots, which will create a fuller, bushier appearance.

Why is my Southern dewberry growing so leggy?