Stake or cage the plants vertically for easier harvest. Left uncaged & unpruned, the plants will become monsters spreading 5-6 feet in all directions - and nearly impossible to get into without injury. If they have already begun to spread, drive poles in on either side, run strong twine under the vines, pull the vines up gently & tie to the poles.

There should be no need to hull them. When the berries are fully ripe, the thorny calyx surrounding the fruit will peel back, and the berries should separate with a gentle pull. Some of mine are a little harder to pull off (usually the largest ones), and they will tear a little. Some of the smaller ones will drop off on their own, and can be picked off the ground.

The berries spoil quickly unless refrigerated (especially if torn) and should be used within a day or two. Toward the end of the season, when cooler temps arrive, most of the near-mature berries will ripen. At this time, you can cut off complete trusses & allow them to finish ripening indoors. Lay them in a single layer on trays, to avoid puncturing the berries on the thorny stems of others.

You should be aware that some ripe berries may crack on the plant. Wasps will feed on these, especially as Fall approaches & food is scarce... so thorns are not the only reason to be careful.