Growing Cold-Hardy Currants Nov 7th, 2011 | By Esther |
Category: Food, Gardening | Print This Article Currants are a
fast growing, deciduous shrub, which produce multiple stems that
can grow five feet wide and high. Most currants are self
fertile, but some cultivars are partially self-sterile, so
planting them in twos and threes is a good for producing more
fruit. Currants are hardy in zones 3 through 5, but they adapt
well to containers in other areas. Currants prefer morning sun
and partial shade in the afternoons with plenty of air
circulation. They prefer cool heavy soils that are rich in clay
and have good moisture retention. Sandy soil dries out to
quickly, which can cause soil to overheat. (A thick mulch of
organic matter keeps soil cool in summer and adds nutrients
too.) The plants tend to collapse when soil or air exceeds 85
degrees. They prefer a slightly acidic pH of 5.5 – 7.0 and do
not tolerate alkaline or salty soils. Leaves alternate maple-
like and single-lobed versions. Black varieties have p