The fruit culture, in the State of Minas Gerais, has been increased and diversified considerably, during the last years. Blackberry appeared as an important option to fruit growers; however there are no trials performed in that State. The objective of this work was to evaluate the summer pruning effects on off season production of blackberries varieties. This work was carried out in Epamig - "Fazenda Experimental" in Caldas, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Fruit weight, estimated production and productivity per plant and per hectare (ha) were evaluated for seven cultivars (Brazos, Comanche, Ébano, Caingangue, Guarani, Tupy and Cherokee) and one selection (97). The results lead to conclude that summer pruning induced less production in all varieties. Highest off season production was obtained in 'Comanche' (3, 26 t/ha), followed by 'Tupy' (2,93 t/ha).
Rubus spp; small fruit; off season production; pruning
