Stan:

I have a very large, old raspberry patch which I would like to clean up.

I was thinking of doing a quick "burn" this winter to burn off the tops. Will I kill the whole plant?

The deer really have done a number on the area - breaking the canes or bending them over, do the raspberry plants need attention.

Do you have any other suggestions for grooming this large area?

Delores
Carrot Creek, Alberta

Delores - Thanks for your rather unique query.
If at all , this would be the best time to clear out the bramble patch. I would equate the clean up of the berry bushes to long grass burning in the early spring.

The thing of it is, the scourging must be quick, and without any prolonged burning of leaf drop or other such flammable detritus that might severely jeopardize the bud formations below soil level.

If you are subscribed, you may be interested in my February 'Info Notes', which will be in the mail boxes by mid February.

When the soil thaws, soak the berry patch with water to encourage a deep root system and better fruit producing canes for the season.