Is there anything I can do to get my blackberries to ripen faster, or protect them from frost?

Protecting blackberries from frost can be done with a large tarp, and if it is going to be very cold, a bucket of water. As to making blackberries ripen faster UT Extension Agent Chris Cooper gives some suggestions.

Related Videos:
Protecting Shrubs and Perennials from Winter Cold
Building a Blackberry Trellis
Blackberry Pruning and Fertilizing

Related Resources:
Pruning and Training Caneberries (Blackberries and Raspberries)
Pruning Raspberries, Blackberries, Gooseberries, Currants, and Elderberries
Pruning Raspberries and Blackberries