Red Currants Rovada - 1 Bush

PREPARATION

Currants prefer an open position. They like morning sun, but will tolerate partial shade. A thick mulch of manure or compost, also keeps the soil cool in summer while adding humus to the soil. Sandy soils are less suitable for currants because they dry out to fast.

PLANTING

Plant firmly between October and March. Allow plenty of room between bushes, 1.5m (5ft) apart with 1.8m (6ft) between the rows. It is essential for the bushes to have light and air, also ease of access is amust when gathering the fruit. Keep the plants watered until the fruit is harvested. At this point they stop active growth and the watering frequency can be reduced. Plants stressed for water are susceptible to mildew.

 

PRUNING

RED & WHITE CURRANTS In winter on two year old bushes cut each branch back haldway to an outside bud. New branches will then be formed.

HARVEST

Most cultivars hold well on the plant. To eat fresh let the berries hang for about three weeks after they colour up. If the fruits are to be stored, they should be picked dry. To avoid damaging the fruits, pick a whole sprig by the stem, taking care not to damage the spur.

GENERAL TIPS

Currants are unsurpassed for making jelly, but are also good in pies and sauces, especially when mixed with other fruits that have more body. Currants can also be used in wine making, said by some to be similar in flavour to Graves or Rhine wines. Black currants are the traditional source of the French liqueur, Cassis.