Blackberry Stems Falling Down

[bglass]

We have three rows of thornless blackberries. We try to keep them pruned to about 4' tall to encourage new and outward growth. Quite a few of the new growth canes have just fallen over. They are completely eaten off at ground level. Will we still get more new growth for next year's berries? Also can anyone help with something to prevent this?

[Tony M]

bglass-
I don't have a direct solution but I think many seasoned organic gardeners approach problem solving in a similar way. The first step is to identify the cause. What is causing the problem and IS it a problem. For example, if you see bugs on your plants your first act may be to get a bug killer. But what if those bugs are beneficial meat eaters, looking for caterpillers on the undersides of you leaves? Once you identify the root cause (vs the symptom or result of the problem) you can determine a course of action and possible solution. Now, back to the real world in your backyard. Check during the day or you may have to go out at dusk to determine what is eating your stems. If it is a rabbit, all the bug killers in the world won't help. You have to know the pest before you can target it. Write back with the cause and I'm sure we can help you. Also, tell us where you live. (I promise we won't raid your berry patch)
Tony M