How to grow currant
Overview
Currant (Ribes nigrum) is a deciduous fruiting shrub grown for its tart, dark berries. It requires winter chill to set fruit and performs best in cool, damp climates with consistent moisture.
Varieties
- Ben Lomond — Heavy cropping, disease-resistant, and suited to cool climates.
- Ben Sarek — Compact bush with large, sweet berries; ideal for small gardens.
- Blackdown — Late-season variety with high yields and good frost tolerance.
Soil Preparation
Currants prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0–6.5) rich in organic matter. Before planting, dig in 2kg of well-rotted manure per square metre and ensure free drainage—raised beds help in heavy clay. Avoid fresh manure near roots.
Growing Guide
Plant currants in a position with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer zones. Space bushes 1.5m apart in rows 2m apart. Set the root crown 5cm deeper than the nursery pot to encourage basal shoots. Water deeply twice weekly during dry spells, and apply a 5cm layer of organic mulch around the root zone. Prune annually in winter to remove wood over 3 years old.
Sowing
Sow seed 6 mm deep in seed trays of moist potting mix. Keep at 15–20°C; germination takes 2–4 weeks. Transplant seedlings when 10–15 cm tall. Direct sowing is less common; most gardeners buy bare-root plants.
Care
Feed with a balanced organic fertiliser (e.g., 5-5-5) in early spring and again after harvest. In winter, remove all stems over 3 years old at ground level to renew the bush. Mulch annually with composted manure to maintain soil fertility.
Companion Planting
Plant chives and garlic nearby to deter aphids. Avoid planting near black walnut or eucalyptus, which inhibit growth. Good neighbours include strawberries, gooseberries, and rhubarb.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids cluster on new shoots; spray with neem oil or introduce ladybirds. Currant blister mite causes distorted leaves—prune and destroy affected growth. Powdery mildew can occur in humid spots; improve airflow with summer pruning.
Harvesting
Harvest whole clusters when berries are fully dark and slightly soft to the touch—usually 2–3 weeks after colour change. Pick in dry weather and refrigerate immediately. Currants freeze well for later use in jams or cordials.
In the Kitchen
Use fresh in tarts or freeze for later. Currants are high in pectin, making them excellent for jams and jellies. Store unwashed in the fridge for up to a week; wash just before use.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: nitrogen deficiency or waterlogged soil—apply blood meal or improve drainage. Brown leaf edges: salt burn from over-fertilising or dry soil—flush with water and mulch. Poor fruiting: lack of winter chill or pruning too hard—leave 1–2 year old wood. Stunted growth: currant blister mite—prune and destroy affected shoots in winter. Fruit drop: inconsistent watering during ripening—maintain steady moisture.