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Gooseberries, Red & White Currants

The requirements of gooseberries are similar to those of red and white currants and these two crops should be grouped together in any garden plan. Varieties of gooseberries differ widely in their performance depending on local soil conditions, e.g. Whinham's Industry does well on heavy soils which are generally unsatisfactory for gooseberries. Chalky, sandy and gravelly soils in particular require plentiful dressings of farmyard manure or garden compost before and after planting. Gooseberries are however usually more tolerant of alkaline conditions than most fruits. Gooseberries, red and white currants can be grown as a bush, stool-bush, half-standard or upright cordon. It is always preferable to start off with a two year old plant. Half-standard forms (where the main stem length is approximately 60cm [2ft] in length) are now becoming very popular. They have several advantages over conventional low bush forms; they are more attractive looking and since they bear their fruit well above ground level they are easier to manage and pick. They also take up less ground space, since the area beneath the bush can be utilised by low growing annuals or herbs. This is clearly an important consideration in a small garden. Bushes and half-standards should be planted 1.2-1.5m (4-5ft) apart.

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