How to Plant Redcurrant Bushes: A Beginner’s Guide
How to Plant Redcurrant Bushes?
To plant redcurrant bushes, start by choosing a suitable location with well-draining, slightly acidic or neutral soil.
Redcurrants can tolerate shade and poor soil conditions, but prefer full sun.
When planting potted redcurrant plants, soak the roots in water and plant them about 120cm/4ft away from other plants.
Bare-rooted plants should be planted as soon as possible after delivery, between mid-December and March.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the root spread, place the plant in the hole, and fill it with earth.
Redcurrant bushes should be planted 5cm/2in deeper than they are in the pot to encourage multiple central stems.
Water the plant if the soil is dry.
Redcurrant bushes can also be grown in containers with frequent watering and mulching to retain moisture.
Prune the bushes once a year between December and early March when the plant is dormant.
Harvest the fruits by cutting off the clusters using scissors.
Redcurrant bushes can also be propagated from cuttings or layering.
Key Points:
- Choose a suitable location with well-draining, slightly acidic or neutral soil
- Soak the roots of potted plants in water and plant them 120cm/4ft away from other plants
- Bare-rooted plants should be planted between mid-December and March
- Dig a hole larger than the root spread, place the plant in the hole, and fill it with earth
- Plant redcurrant bushes 5cm/2in deeper than they are in the pot
- Prune the bushes once a year between December and early March
Did You Know?
1. Redcurrant bushes are native to Europe and Asia, and have been cultivated for hundreds of years for their delicious berries.
2. Did you know that redcurrant bushes are actually part of the same family as gooseberries and white currants? They are all part of the Grossulariaceae family.
3. Redcurrant bushes prefer cooler climates and do well in regions with mild summers and cold winters. They can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C), making them quite hardy plants.
4. Traditionally, redcurrant bushes were planted in kitchen gardens and monastery gardens during medieval times.
5. Redcurrant bushes are not only prized for their fruit but also for their ornamental value. The bright red berries and vibrant green leaves make them a lovely addition to any garden.
Ideal Soil Conditions For Redcurrant Bushes
Redcurrant bushes are hardy plants that can adapt to various conditions, making them a great choice for UK gardens. However, they thrive best in open and free-draining soil. If your soil is sandy, adding well-rotted compost can improve its texture and drainage.
Redcurrant bushes prefer slightly acid or neutral soil with a pH range of 6 to 7. It’s important to test the soil pH before planting to ensure it falls within the desired range. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, you can make adjustments by adding lime or sulfur accordingly.
While redcurrants do best in full sun, they can still produce fruit in partial shade. However, keep in mind that they will be more productive if they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Redcurrant bushes thrive in open and free-draining soil.
- Adding well-rotted compost can improve sandy soil texture and drainage.
- Soil pH should be tested before planting redcurrant bushes.
- Adjust soil acidity with lime or sulfur if necessary.
- Redcurrants can produce fruit in partial shade.
- Aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Purchasing And Planting Redcurrant Bushes
If you’re ready to plant redcurrant bushes, you have a few options for sourcing them:
- Garden centers often carry these plants.
- You can also purchase them online from reputable suppliers like Crocus.
When it comes to planting, potted redcurrant plants can be planted at any time of the year. On the other hand, bare-rooted plants should be planted as soon as possible after delivery. Bare-rooted plants are typically available from mid-December to March.
On the day of planting:
- Soak the roots of the redcurrant bush in water to hydrate the plant and prepare it for the planting process.
- Dig a hole slightly larger than the root spread of the plant.
- Place the redcurrant bush in the hole, ensuring it is planted about 120cm (4ft) away from other plants.
It’s recommended to plant redcurrant bushes 5cm (2in) deeper than they were in the pot. This encourages the growth of multiple central stems and contributes to the overall health and vigor of the bush. Fill the hole with earth, gently firming the soil around the roots.
To provide the necessary nutrients for the redcurrant bush, add a good dose of blood, fish, and bone into the topsoil at the time of planting. This will give the plant a healthy start and help it establish well.
If the soil is dry at the time of planting, make sure to water the redcurrant bush thoroughly. Adequate hydration is important for the initial growth and development of the plant.
Caring For Redcurrant Bushes In Containers
Redcurrant bushes can also be successfully grown in containers, allowing those with limited garden space to enjoy their delicious fruits. When choosing a container, opt for one with a minimum depth of 40cm (17in) and a width of at least 60cm (2ft). This will provide enough room for the roots to grow and ensure the plant has adequate space.
Containers for redcurrant bushes should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Make sure there are sufficient drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
Growing redcurrants in containers requires frequent watering, especially during warm and dry weather. The soil in containers tends to dry out more quickly than the ground, so regular monitoring and watering are crucial. However, be careful to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
To retain moisture at the roots and regulate soil temperature, it’s beneficial to mulch the top of the soil in the container. Choose materials like stones, bark, or wood chips to create a layer of mulch. This will help conserve water and prevent weed growth.
Pruning Redcurrant Bushes For Optimal Fruit Production
Pruning redcurrant bushes is essential for promoting healthy growth and optimal fruit production. The prime time to prune these bushes is between December and early March when they are dormant.
Redcurrant bushes produce fruit on two and three-year-old stems. To ensure a continuous supply of fruit, it is vital to prune correctly. Begin by pruning plants that are three years old or older, removing all stems older than three years and cutting them back to ground level.
For the two-year-old main stems, trim the side shoots back to two buds from the main stem. This practice helps maintain a well-shaped, compact bush and encourages productive stem growth.
To maintain the neat appearance and health of the bush, prune any drooping or damaged stems by either shortening them or removing them entirely. Additionally, it is crucial to prune any diseased or dead wood as it prevents the spread of diseases.
Proper pruning not only stimulates fruit production, but it also improves airflow within the bush, thereby reducing the risk of disease and enhancing the overall health of the plant.
Harvesting And Storing Redcurrants
Redcurrants in the UK are typically ready for harvest from late June onwards. It is best to pick them when they have reached their full color and are firm to the touch. Use a pair of scissors to cut off the clusters of redcurrants from the bush.
Once harvested, you can enjoy the redcurrants fresh or use them in various culinary applications. For storage, place the unwashed berries in the refrigerator, where they can keep for up to three days. If you have a larger harvest, redcurrants can also be frozen for later use. Simply wash and dry the fruits before freezing them in suitable containers.
Propagating Redcurrant Bushes From Cuttings
Propagating Redcurrant Bushes from Cuttings
Propagating redcurrant bushes from cuttings is a reliable and cost-effective method of obtaining new plants. This process should be done during the winter when the plants are dormant.
To start, select a two-year-old main stem with a 30cm (12in) side stem for taking the cutting. Make a clean cut just below a bud on the main stem. Trim the side stem to around 10-12cm (4-5in) in length.
Prepare a well-dug soil bed for planting the cuttings. Dig a hole about 10-12cm (4-5in) deep and carefully plant the cuttings, ensuring that at least two buds are above the soil level. After planting, water the cuttings generously to settle the soil around them.
Redcurrant cuttings have a high success rate, with approximately 75% rooting by early summer. With proper care and nurturing, these rooted cuttings will develop into healthy, fruit-bearing plants. During the first year, it is important to provide adequate water and protection from extreme weather conditions.
- Choose a two-year-old main stem
- Make a clean cut just below a bud on the main stem
- Trim the side stem to 10-12cm (4-5in)
- Prepare a well-dug soil bed
- Dig a hole 10-12cm (4-5in) deep
- Plant the cutting with at least two buds above the soil level
- Water the cuttings well after planting
- Provide adequate water and protection during the first year
Propagating redcurrant bushes from cuttings allows you to expand your garden without the need to purchase new plants. It is a rewarding method of growing these delicious fruits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to plant currant bushes?
The best place to plant currant bushes is in an area that receives full sun to partial shade. While they can tolerate some shade, you will see a higher fruit yield if the plants are exposed to full sun. It is recommended to space the bushes at least 3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation. Additionally, most currant and gooseberry varieties are self-fruitful, meaning they can pollinate themselves without requiring another plant for cross-pollination.
How do you grow red currants from cuttings?
To grow red currants from cuttings, begin by selecting a healthy stem and trimming off the end just below a bud. Then, cut the end of the stem just above a bud, leaving a 15cm to 20cm / 6in to 8in long stem. Ensure the chosen area in your garden is well-dug and ready for planting the cuttings.
How do you grow red currants from seed?
To grow red currants from seed, it is important to stratify the seeds for a period of three to four months. This can be done by placing the seeds in a cool environment, just above freezing temperatures. Once the stratification period is complete, carefully plant the seeds in a well-draining soil and provide adequate moisture. It is essential to note that while the seedlings will be prolific and capable of producing fruit at the age of 2 to 3 years, they will not inherit the exact characteristics of the parent plant, as they are genetically distinct.
How do you start a currant bush?
Starting a currant bush is a simple and accessible process due to their high rooting ability from cuttings. To begin, take a stem cutting during early spring before the plant starts to leaf out. Make sure to select a healthy and strong stem. Plant the cutting deep into the soil, ensuring that it is inserted securely. With proper care and favorable conditions, the cutting will typically take root and establish itself as a new currant bush. This method provides an efficient and reliable way to propagate currant plants.