Red Currant

What you'll need:

A spot in your garden with well-draining soil

Some compost or organic matter to enrich the soil

Mulch (like straw, wood chips, or leaves)

• Red currant bushes or bare-root plants (you can find these at garden centers or online)
• Pruning shears (for future maintenance)

When to start:

Red currants are best planted in early spring or late fall when the weather is cool but not freezing. This gives the plant time to settle in before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

Choosing a good spot:

Red currants love sunlight but can tolerate some shade. Find a place that gets at least 4-6 hours of sun daily. They also like space, so make sure there's enough room for air to flow around the bush—about 3-4 feet (1 meter) on all sides.

Soil preparation:

• Before planting, dig the soil over to loosen it up.
• Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to give the plant a nutrient boost.
• If your soil is heavy clay or too sandy, adding organic matter will help improve drainage and texture.

Tip: Red currants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). If you're unsure about your soil's pH, most garden centers sell simple soil test kits.

If you have a potted red currant bush:

1. Dig a hole that’s about twice as wide and just as deep as the pot.
2. Gently remove the plant from its container, being careful not to damage the roots.
3. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
4. Fill the hole back in with soil, gently firming it down around the plant.
5. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.

If you have a bare-root red currant:

1. Soak the roots in a bucket of water for an hour or two before planting.
2. Dig a hole large enough to spread out the roots comfortably.
3. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole to help support the plant.
4. Spread the roots over the mound and fill in the hole with soil, ensuring the crown (where the roots meet the stem) is just above the soil line.
5. Press the soil gently but firmly around the base and water well.

Spacing tip:

• Plant red currants about 3-4 feet apart (1 meter). This allows enough room for each bush to grow without crowding.

Mulching:

• After planting, spread a layer of mulch (like straw or wood chips) around the base of the plant. This helps keep the soil moist and prevents weeds from growing.

Watering:

• Red currants like consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Aim to water deeply once or twice a week rather than giving them a little sprinkle every day.
• Check the soil—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.

Feeding:

• Feed your red currant bush in early spring with a balanced fertilizer (something labeled for fruit bushes works well).
• You can also add a layer of compost around the base of the plant each year to provide slow-release nutrients.

Pruning:

• Red currants produce fruit on older wood, so pruning is important to keep the bush healthy and productive.
• Wait until late winter or early spring to prune (when the plant is still dormant).
• Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to open up the center of the bush for better airflow.
• Cut back about a third of the oldest branches to encourage new growth.

Pest & Disease Watch:

• Keep an eye out for aphids, which can sometimes cluster on the undersides of leaves. You can wash them off with a strong spray of water or use an insecticidal soap if needed.
• Good air circulation (thanks to proper spacing and pruning) will help prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

Tip: Birds love red currants! As the berries ripen, you might want to cover your bushes with netting to protect your harvest.

When to pick your red currants:

• Red currants are usually ready to harvest in mid to late summer (around July or August), depending on your climate.
• The berries should be bright red, firm, and slightly translucent.
• Taste one—if it’s sweet-tart and juicy, it’s ready!

How to harvest:

• Red currants grow in clusters (similar to grapes), so you can either pick individual berries or snip off whole clusters with scissors.
• Be gentle—currants are delicate and can bruise easily.

After harvesting:

• Store fresh red currants in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If you have a big harvest, they freeze beautifully. Simply wash, dry, and pop them into freezer bags for later use in jams, pies, or smoothies.
• Don’t wash the berries until you’re ready to use them, as excess moisture can cause them to spoil faster.

Tip: Even if you don’t eat all the berries right away, leaving some on the bush can attract birds, which is great for natural pest control in your garden!

Q: Do red currants need a lot of sun?

A: Red currants do best with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight, but they can handle partial shade. Just know that more sun usually means more fruit!

Q: Can I grow red currants in a pot?

A: Yes! Choose a large container (at least 18 inches/45 cm wide) with good drainage. Make sure to water regularly and feed with a balanced fertilizer since potted plants rely entirely on you for nutrients.

Q: Why are my red currant leaves turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves could mean overwatering, poor drainage, or even a lack of nutrients. Check the soil—if it’s soggy, let it dry out a bit. If it’s dry, water more often. Adding compost or fertilizer can also help.

Q: How long does it take for red currants to produce fruit?

A: If you planted a young bush, you’ll likely see fruit within 2-3 years. Bare-root plants may take a little longer, but with proper care, they’ll reward you soon enough!

Q: Are red currants the same as gooseberries?

A: They’re related (both are part of the Ribes family), but they’re different fruits. Gooseberries are larger and often have a thicker skin, while red currants grow in clusters and are smaller and shinier.