Learn how to grow Redcurrants in your garden with this easy to follow guide. Sun requirements, planting tips, feeding and harvesting information included!

Soil

What soil is good for Redcurrants?

Redcurrants require well draining soil with plenty of compost mixed in. 

Position

How much sun do Redcurrants need?

 Plant Redcurrants prefer a full sun position, however will tolerate part sun or afternoon shade. 

Frost Tolerant

Are Redcurrants frost tolerant?

Yes, Redcurrants are generally frost tolerant, but may need protection from severe frosts. 

Spacing

How much space do Redcurrants need?

Plant Redcurrant plants roughly 1m apart. 

Planting

When should I plant Redcurrants?

Late autumn or early spring is the best time to transplant most dormant plants. Plants, with the exception of bare-root, can be transplanted at anytime between when the ground thaws and when it freezes (so anytime if you are in a frost free climate). However, if transplanting in the heat of summer, you'll need to be diligent in watering and provide extra shade for your plant in the first few weeks after transplanting. 

Dig a hole 2-3 times the width of the root ball. The hole should allow the plant to sit at the same level in the soil as it was previously. Fill the hole with soil ensuring the crown of the plant, where roots and stem meet, is level with the soil surface. 

Plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Feeding

What do I feed Redcurrants?

Each spring, top-dress the soil around your Redcurrant plant with a fresh layer of well rotted compost, some potash and an organic fertiliser. Mulch the soil well. An organic fertiliser can also be used throughout the season, particularly if the leaves start showing signs of nutrient deficiency. 

Harvesting

When can I harvest Redcurrants?

Harvest your Currants consistently throughout the season when the berries are red. Redcurrants can be eaten fresh, or frozen for future use. 

Pests

What pests do Redcurrants get?

Pests that can affect Redcurrant plants include: Aphids, Mites, Weevils, Slug, Snail, Common Gooseberry Sawfly. 

Diseases

What diseases do Redcurrants get?

Diseases that can affect Redcurrants plants include: Cane Blight, Gray Mold, Raspberry Leaf Spot, Spur Blight, Yellow Rust, Fire Blight, Leaf Curl, Mosaic Virus, Raspberry Ringspot, Phytophthora Root Rot. 

Notes

Is there anything else I need to know about Redcurrants?

At the end of the season, prune your Redcurrant plant in order to remove old or unproductive wood. Open up the centre to let light and air in by removing any overlapping branches, this will help prevent disease.  

Something Similar

Blogs about Redcurrant

You might also like