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Sign up freeRibes nigrum
Hardy shrub producing tart, vitamin-rich berries. Fruits on one-year-old wood — prune out a third of the oldest stems each winter. Self-fertile but heavier crops with a pollinator partner nearby.
Attract Hoverflies, Lacewings, Ladybugs, Parasitic wasps, Ground beetles to keep them in check — plant African MarigoldGreat, Belgian EndiveGreat and ChervilGreat nearby.Water: Medium · Height: 180 cm · Soil: Well-draining loamy soil, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Tolerates poor soil but prefers fertile, humus-rich conditions. Avoid waterlogged areas.
Blackcurrant is usually grown from cuttings rather than seed. Take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and root it in moist, free-draining compost.
Ribes rubrum
fruit
Shares Blackcurrant's vulnerability to aphids — same companion strategies apply
Ribes uva-crispa
fruitA fellow Grossulariaceae — similar growing habits to Blackcurrant
Aronia melanocarpa
fruitSame aphids challenge as Blackcurrant — similar protective companions help
Amelanchier alnifolia
fruitThrives in the same full sun, moderate water conditions as Blackcurrant
These three thrive alongside Blackcurrant — and alongside each other.
