Blackcurrant ‘Ebony’

Blackcurrants prefer a position in full sun but will tolerate semi shade. Shelter from cold winds and late spring frosts as these conditions may damage the flowers, and reduce the yield of fruit later in the year. Grow blackcurrants in rich, moist, well drained soil. Incorporate plenty of well rotted manure into the ground prior to planting. Plant blackcurrant bushes between late autumn and spring, at a distance of 1.5m (5′) apart and a depth of 5cm (2″) lower than the soil mark on the stem. Planting blackcurrants slightly deep will encourage the production of extra stems from below ground level.

These plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They often look dead on arrival, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring. Set out in prepared soil in holes wide enough and deep enough to lay out the roots. Tread down the planting soil to knock out air pockets. Water well to settle. Apply a mulch to protect roots from cold temperatures. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots.
Set these at the same level as they were in the nursery field – you should see a soil line at the base of the stem. Stake trees, taller shrubs and roses to prevent root disturbance.

After planting, reduce the stems to 2 buds above ground level to promote sturdy new growth. Keep blackcurrant plants well watered during dry periods, particularly as the fruits are developing. Netting the bushes will help to protect the currants from birds. Blackcurrants can be harvested from July.

After the first season, prune out any thin or weak shoots. In the following years prune out any damaged or weak shoots before removing 20% of the remaining stems to create an open bush, and encourage fresh new shoots to develop. Culinary note: Blackcurrants are delicious when eaten fresh in a fruit salad or added to a colourful and tasty summer pudding. Suitable for freezing.