fruit cage

[diver]

we have just built a fruit cage from reclaimed timber and builders' netting. I have put blackberries, gooseberries and raspberries in..not that I have got any fruit this year...but my question is....can I put wood chippings between the bushes to help keep the weeds down and retain the moisture....or, should I plant through mypex ( that black stuff) or what's best...and when shall I prune them...they are all cuttings given to me by other people on the allotments

[Sue]

sorry haven't got much idea myself - I was told not to use wood chippings but I don't see a problem - I don't see fruit either but hope thats coz its the 1 st year
I know you cut raspberries back hard to the ground on sticks that fruited but unsure about those that didn't fruit etc
watching your replies with interest