Red Raspberry + Garlic

Red raspberries and garlic are a practical pairing for growers dealing with cane borer pressure or recurring fungal issues. Garlic planted between rows or at row ends releases sulfur compounds that appear to disrupt cane borer adult flight and suppress some fungal pathogens on cane tissue. Rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart accommodate garlic without significant competition for light or moisture.

Timing requires some coordination: garlic goes in fall for overwintering, while raspberries are typically planted in early spring. An established raspberry planting is the more common scenario, with garlic intercropped into existing row gaps. Soil requirements align well, as both prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 6.8). The pairing is most useful where Raspberry Crown Borer or Raspberry Cane Borer is a documented problem. It is less relevant in arid climates where fungal cane diseases are rare.