One of the most rewarding fruits to grow in our British gardens is the blackcurrant. These little berries pack a punch in terms of flavour and nutrition, and with the right approach, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest year after year.
Quick Answer
To grow blackcurrants in the UK, plant them in well-drained soil in a sunny spot, prune annually and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Harvest from June to August.
Choosing the Right Variety
The first step in growing blackcurrants is selecting the right variety for your garden. In the UK, popular varieties include 'Ben Connan', 'Ben Hope', and 'Ben Lomond'. These are well-suited to our climate and offer excellent disease resistance.
- 'Ben Connan' is ideal for smaller gardens due to its compact size.
- 'Ben Hope' is known for its high yields and resistance to mildew.
- 'Ben Lomond' is a reliable choice with good frost resistance.
Preparing the Planting Site
Blackcurrants prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Choose a sunny spot in your garden where the bushes will receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. In Staffordshire and other parts of the Midlands, it's important to consider wind protection, as cold winds can damage young buds.
Planting Blackcurrants
Plant bare-rooted blackcurrants between November and March, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, and plant each bush about 1.5 metres apart to allow for growth. Water them in well after planting.
Pruning and Maintenance
Annual pruning is crucial for a healthy blackcurrant bush. In winter, cut back old wood to ground level to encourage new growth. Every year, remove about a third of the older stems.
- Prune in late winter, around February or March.
- Remove any dead or diseased wood.
- Encourage an open centre to improve air circulation.
Watering and Feeding
Blackcurrants need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support fruiting.
Harvesting Blackcurrants
Blackcurrants are typically ready to harvest from June to August. It's best to pick the entire truss of berries rather than individual ones to prevent damage to the plant.
| Month | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| November-March | Planting | Avoid frozen ground |
| February-March | Pruning | Remove old wood |
| June-August | Harvesting | Pick full trusses |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do blackcurrants need full sun?
Yes, blackcurrants thrive in full sun and will produce the best yields in a sunny position.
Can I grow blackcurrants in containers?
While it's possible to grow them in containers, they perform best in the ground where their roots have more space to spread.
How do I prevent pests on my blackcurrant bushes?
Regular pruning helps improve air circulation, and using netting can protect the berries from birds.