Tatran Blackcurrant Plant Untreated - Bare Roots 3-4 Branches - 30-40cm

Blackcurrant bushes, fruit shrubs producing small black berries rich in flavor and nutrients, are prized for their cultivation in France, particularly by market gardening professionals. Their purchase requires careful attention to criteria such as age, health, root system, and adaptation to the terroir, while the choice between bare-root or container-grown plants, as well as the selection of suitable varieties, plays a key role in optimizing production and harvest quality.

How to choose your blackcurrant bushes for profitable and sustainable production?

When purchasing blackcurrant plants, there are several essential criteria to consider to ensure a successful investment and optimal production :

Selection criteria for a successful purchase:

• Age of plants : Choose plants that are 1 to 2 years old, which offer a good balance between ease of recovery and speed of fruiting .
• Health Status : Examine plants carefully to ensure there are no diseases, pests , or visible damage to leaves, stems, or roots.
• Root System : For bare-root plants, check that the root system is well developed , with numerous, healthy roots.
• Certification : Choose certified plants , guaranteeing varietal authenticity and the absence of serious diseases .
• Adaptation to the terroir : Choose varieties adapted to your climate and soil type to maximize the chances of success .

Benefits of buying professional plants:

• Superior Quality : Plants grown in professional nurseries benefit from expert care , resulting in more robust and disease-resistant specimens.
• Optimized yield : Varieties selected by professionals are often more productive and better adapted to intensive growing conditions.
• Traceability and guarantee : Professional suppliers offer better traceability of plants and often guarantees on their quality .
• Advice and monitoring : Purchasing from professionals allows you to benefit from personalized advice on the choice of varieties , cultivation techniques and maintenance .
• Varietal diversity : Specialized nurseries offer a wide range of varieties , including rare or new cultivars , allowing for production diversification .
• Local adaptation : Local nurseries often grow plants already acclimatized to regional conditions , promoting better recovery after planting .
• Long-term savings : Although potentially more expensive to purchase, professional plants generally offer a better return on investment due to their superior quality and productivity.

By choosing professional quality blackcurrant plants , producers not only ensure a better start to their cultivation, but also valuable technical support to optimize their production in the long term .

---

What type of blackcurrant plant should you choose for effective planting?

For blackcurrants, the choice of plant type is crucial and depends on production objectives and growing conditions . Here are the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of plants available:

Bare-root plants:

Benefits :

• Low cost , ideal for large-scale plantings
• Better recovery thanks to a well-developed root system
• Natural adaptation to open ground conditions

Disadvantages:

• Limited planting period (November to March)
• Sensitive to drying , requiring rapid planting

Plants in mini-ball cells :

Benefits :

• Less risk of root damage compared to bare-root plants
• Ease of handling and temporary storage
• Possibility of planting over a longer period

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost than bare root plants
• Potentially less developed root system

7 or 9 cm buckets :

Benefits :

• Better control of initial growth conditions
• Increased protection of young plants against climatic hazards
• Planting possible almost all year round, except during periods of frost or extreme heat

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost than bare-root or mini-ball plants
• Risk of root bun if the stay in the pot is too long

Potted plants :

Benefits :

• More developed plants , allowing for faster fruiting
• Maximum flexibility for planting period
• Better initial resistance to water and climate stress

Disadvantages:

• Significantly higher cost
• More difficult handling , especially for large volumes
• Increased risk of root bun requiring special attention when planting

How to make the right choice?

For professional blackcurrant production , the choice will depend on several factors:

• Planting scale : for large areas, bare-root or mini-ball plants are often preferred for their value for money .
• Planned planting time : If flexibility is required, plants in pots or containers are preferable.
• Resources available for post-planting irrigation : Bare-root plants generally require less watering once established.
• Mechanization of planting : bare-root or mini-ball plants are more suitable for large-scale mechanized planting .

Ultimately, for professional blackcurrant production , bare-root or mini-ball plants are often the best compromise between cost , ease of planting and quality of recovery . However, for smaller plantations or those requiring rapid fruiting , 7 or 9 cm pots can be an excellent option .

---

Which blackcurrant varieties should you choose for optimal professional performance?

The most common blackcurrant varieties in France are divided into two main categories: traditional varieties and specific varieties .

Traditional varieties:

• Noir de Bourgogne : Considered the best variety in terms of taste and aroma , it is widely used in the processing industry , particularly for crème de cassis . Its berries are small to medium-sized , firm , rather acidic but very aromatic . This self-sterile variety requires a pollinator such as 'Géant de Boskoop' or 'Andega'.
• Boskoop Giant : Bred in the Netherlands in 1887, this variety produces large, thin-skinned , tender , slightly acidic and very fragrant berries when ripe. It is disease resistant and quite productive .
• Andega : Self-fertile and very productive variety, it flowers at the end of April and its fruits reach maturity at the beginning of July . Its bunches are made up of beautiful fleshy and tasty grains .

Specific varieties:

Early:

• Boskoop Giant : Fruits from the end of June or the first week of July .
• Troll : Creation of INRA, very productive with large colored grains , adapted to regions with a mild climate .

Late:

• Blackdown : Flowers late and produces fruit in late July . It is very disease resistant and offers a good yield .
• Ojebyn : Old variety of Swedish origin , extremely hardy , producing juicy , delicately sweet and tangy berries in mid-July .

Mid-season varieties:

• Wellington : Adapted to mild climates , fruits in mid-July .
• Andega : Produces its fruits in mid-July .

It is important to note that there are no ever-bearing varieties of blackcurrant bushes, strictly speaking. However, by choosing different varieties wisely , it is possible to spread the harvests over almost 3 months , from June to August .

For market gardening professionals , the choice of varieties will depend on several factors such as:

• the local climate
• the type of soil
• disease resistance
• the planned marketing method (direct sales, processing, etc.)

It is recommended to diversify the varieties planted to spread production and reduce risks linked to climatic hazards or diseases.

---

How to stagger blackcurrant production for extended direct sales?

Unlike some other small fruits such as strawberries , there are no true everbearing varieties of blackcurrant. Blackcurrants generally produce only one harvest per year , typically between June and August depending on the variety and weather conditions.

However, for market gardening professionals wishing to spread their production over a longer period, it is possible to adopt certain strategies:

Selection of varieties at different ripening periods:

Early varieties:

• Boskoop Giant : Fruits from the end of June or beginning of July
• Troll : Variety created by INRA, very productive and adapted to mild climates

Mid-season varieties:

• Andega : Produces its fruits in mid-July , very productive and self-fertile
• Wellington : Adapted to mild climates , fruits mid-July

Late varieties:

• Blackdown : Disease resistant , produced at the end of July
• Ojebyn : Very hardy Swedish variety, fruits mid-July

Cultivation techniques to spread production:

• Planting in different exposures (north/south) to slightly shift the ripening periods
• Use of tunnels or greenhouses for certain plants to advance production

Diversification with other small fruits:

To complete the offer outside the blackcurrant season, professionals can consider growing other small everbearing fruits such as:

• Everbearing raspberries (e.g. 'Heritage' or 'Autumn Bliss' varieties)
• Thornless, everbearing mulberry trees (e.g. 'Reuben' variety)

By combining these different approaches, producers can offer small black fruits over an extended period , thus meeting market demand throughout the season.

It is important to note that the choice of varieties must also take into account other factors such as disease resistance , productivity and the taste quality of the fruits.

---

When should you plant your blackcurrant bushes to ensure optimal recovery and a good yield?

Blackcurrant planting can be done over a fairly wide period, but there are optimal times to ensure better recovery and maximize future yield . Here is the optimal planting schedule for blackcurrants:

Ideal period: autumn

The best time to plant blackcurrant bushes is from October to November . This autumn planting has several advantages:

• It allows plants to develop their root system before winter
• Shrubs benefit from autumn rains for better recovery
• The plants are ready to start growing the following spring.

Alternative period: late winter - early spring

If autumn planting is not possible, an alternative is to plant from February to March . This period also offers good conditions :

• The soil begins to warm up , promoting root development
• The plants have time to establish themselves before the summer heat

Important points to respect:

• Avoid planting during periods of frost
• Ensure the soil is not soggy when planting
• For regions with harsh winters , favor spring planting.

Lunar calendar (for those who follow this method):

Plant in the waning moon , during the "fruit/seed" days . For example, in 2025:

• January : 16, 17, 18, 26
• February : 12, 13, 14
• October : 16, 17, 18 (after 11am), 26
• November : 12, 13, 14 (after 12 p.m.)

By respecting this planting schedule , producers can optimize the recovery of their blackcurrant bushes and lay the foundations for successful production .

It is important to note that the first significant harvest will generally not occur until two years after planting , hence the importance of choosing the right time to plant to give the plants the best chance of establishing themselves firmly .

---

What are the ideal conditions for successful professional blackcurrant cultivation?

For professional blackcurrant cultivation , it is essential to respect certain ideal conditions in order to optimize the growth and yield of the plants :

Exposure :

Blackcurrant bushes prefer a sunny to semi-shaded location . In southern regions , it is best to plant them in semi-shade to avoid too much sunlight . Ideally, choose a location facing south or west to ensure maximum sun exposure while protecting the plants from cold winds and spring frosts .

Climate :

These shrubs are particularly suited to temperate and cool climates . They are very hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -25°C . However, they are sensitive to persistent cold between 1 and 5°C , which can affect fertilization and cause fruit drop . Blackcurrant bushes prefer regions north of the Loire or in the mid-mountains .

Ground :

Blackcurrant thrives in deep, moist, well-drained soil . It tolerates heavy, clayey soils but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH , ideally between 6 and 6.5 . A humus-rich soil will promote optimal growth .

Planting distances:

For professional cultivation, planting distances must be adapted to mechanization and space optimization . Here are some recommendations:

• Between rows : 2.4 to 3 meters
• On the row : 46 to 61 cm

These distances allow for a planting density ranging from 5871 to 8073 plants per hectare .

Ground preparation:

Before planting, it is crucial to properly prepare the soil . Plowing to a depth of 20 cm is recommended to aerate the soil and encourage root development . Removing perennial weeds , especially couch grass , is essential. Growing successive green manures can help suppress weeds while enriching the soil with organic matter.

Pollination:

To ensure good fruiting , it is important to plant several varieties of blackcurrant bushes, as most are self-sterile . Plan on one pollinator for every four plants .

Protection:

Installing a multi-species windbreak hedge can be beneficial in protecting the plantation while promoting the presence of pollinating and predatory insects .

By respecting these ideal planting conditions , professional growers can create an optimal environment for the growth and productivity of their blackcurrant bushes, thus laying the foundation for a successful and sustainable operation .

---

What type of soil should be used for professional and efficient blackcurrant cultivation?

Blackcurrant is a relatively undemanding shrub that adapts to different types of soil, but certain conditions are more favorable for its optimal development and abundant production of tasty fruits .

Favorable soil types:

Blackcurrant prefers fresh, moist, well-drained clay soils . It thrives particularly well in clay loams , which offer a good balance between water retention and drainage . Deep , organic-rich soils are ideal for the development of its root system.

Recommended pH:

The optimal pH for growing blackcurrant is between 6.0 and 7.0 . This slightly acidic to neutral soil promotes better nutrient absorption by the plant. Soils with too much lime (pH above 7.5) are not suitable for blackcurrants, as they can cause chlorosis problems and affect the development of flower and fruit aromas .

Drainage:

Good drainage is crucial for the health of the blackcurrant bush. Although the shrub appreciates moisture, it does not tolerate standing water , especially during the winter. Poorly drained soil can lead to root rot problems . To improve drainage in compacted soil, it is recommended to add medium-grained sand or gravel .

Necessary amendments:

To optimize the growth and production of blackcurrant, several amendments can be beneficial:

• Organic matter : The soil should contain at least 3% organic matter . Incorporating well-rotted manure (5 to 10 kg/m²) or compost before planting enriches the soil and improves its structure .
• Mulching : Applying organic mulch around plants helps maintain soil moisture , limits weed growth and gradually adds nutrients .
• Fertilizer : In case of poor soil , a balanced fertilizer application may be necessary. Favor organic fertilizers for environmentally friendly cultivation .
• Lime : If the soil is too acidic (pH less than 6), a lime amendment may be necessary to adjust the pH.

By carefully preparing the soil before planting and maintaining optimal conditions throughout the growing season, growers can create an ideal environment for the growth and productivity of their blackcurrant bushes.

It is important to note that blackcurrant can adapt to less than ideal conditions , but well-prepared and maintained soil will promote better plant health and more abundant, higher-quality fruit production .

---

Creating a productive blackcurrant plot: key steps for a successful start

To successfully start a blackcurrant plot , it is essential to follow several key steps :

Ground preparation:

• Perform a soil test to determine pH and any necessary amendments .
• Work the soil deeply (30 to 40 cm) to loosen it and encourage good rooting .
• Carefully remove weeds , especially perennials such as couch grass .
• Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure (5 to 10 kg/m²) to enrich the soil with organic matter.

Choice of varieties:

• Select an assortment of early, mid-season and late varieties to spread out production .
• Choose varieties that are suited to your climate and resistant to common diseases .
• Be sure to include pollinator-compatible varieties , such as ' Géant de Boskoop ' or ' Andega ' for the ' Noir de Bourgogne ' variety.

Practical organization of plantations:

• Plant in autumn (October-November) or late winter (February-March) depending on your region.
• Respect the planting distances : 2.4 to 3 meters between rows and 46 to 61 cm in the row.
• Dig planting holes about 30 cm apart in all directions.
• Praline the roots of bare-rooted plants to encourage recovery.
• Place the blackcurrant bush collar 5 cm below ground level to encourage the growth of new stems .

Post-planting care:

• Water thoroughly after planting to firm the soil around the roots.
• Install organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture and limit weeds .
• Set up an irrigation system , ideally drip irrigation , to ensure a regular water supply .

Protection and management of culture:

• Install a multi-species windbreak hedge to protect the plantation and promote biodiversity .
• Plan a pruning plan adapted to the variety chosen to promote optimal production .
• Monitor regularly for the appearance of diseases or pests to intervene quickly if necessary.

By following these essential steps and taking particular care in preparing the land and choosing the varieties , you will lay the foundations for a productive and sustainable blackcurrant plot .

Remember that patience is required , as the first significant harvest will generally not occur until two years after planting .

---

Which plant associations should be favored to strengthen blackcurrant cultivation?

To optimize blackcurrant cultivation , it is essential to judiciously combine varieties with each other and with companion plants . This approach promotes pollination , improves protection against diseases and pests, and contributes to a more abundant and better quality production .

Combination of blackcurrant varieties:

Most blackcurrant cultivars are partially self-fertile , but planting two or more different cultivars provides a much better yield . To ensure optimal pollination , it is recommended to plant at least two different varieties , ensuring that their flowering periods overlap .

For example, the variety ' Noir de Bourgogne ' , considered self-sterile , requires the presence of a pollinator such as ' Géant de Boskoop ' or 'Andega' for abundant fruiting .

Beneficial associations with companion plants:

• Honey plants : Promote the presence of pollinating insects , essential for good fruiting. Examples:
  • Lavender
  • Buttercup
  • Dahlias
  • Borage
  • Sunflower
  • Thyme
• Aromatic plants : Help mask the smell of blackcurrant bushes and repel certain pests . Examples:
  • Chives
  • Absinthe
  • Tansy
• Other small fruits : Their association with blackcurrant bushes allows you to form a delicious hedge and encourage biodiversity . Examples:
  • Gooseberry bushes
  • Raspberry bushes
• Repellent plants : Naturally protect blackcurrant bushes against certain pests:
  • Indian Carnations
  • Nasturtiums
• Flower strips : Planted between rows, they improve pollination by attracting and feeding pollinators .

Protection against diseases and pests:

• Aromatic plants such as mint, thyme or sage can repel certain harmful insects thanks to their essential oils.
• The presence of varied flowers attracts beneficial insects (ladybugs, lacewings), natural predators of aphids .
• Alternating crop rows and planting species at different growing dates reduces the spread of diseases and makes it more difficult for specific pests.

By adopting these association strategies , blackcurrant growers can create a balanced ecosystem within their plot, promoting healthy and abundant production while reducing the use of chemical treatments .

This approach fits perfectly into a sustainable and environmentally friendly culture approach .

---

Blackcurrant bush maintenance: essential cultural practices for quality production

Maintaining blackcurrant bushes is essential to ensure abundant and quality production . Here are the main aspects to consider:

Watering:

The blackcurrant tree likes fresh soil but fears excess water . Regular watering is necessary, especially during the first two summers after planting , because the roots are superficial and the shrub can quickly suffer from drought .

• In open ground: keep the soil cool throughout the growing season, mainly in spring and summer .
• In a pot: the substrate must never dry out completely .

Fertilization:

Add organic fertilizer annually at the start of vegetation to support fruit production and plant health.

• In open ground: if the soil is poor, supplement with a special fruit fertilizer in spring.
• In pots: add fruit fertilizer in spring and supplement monthly with liquid fertilizer from May to August , between flowering and harvest.

Preventive treatments:

• To prevent diseases such as powdery mildew , treat as soon as flowering begins with:
  • Horsetail decoction
  • Nettle manure
  • Sulfur-based product
  Especially in humid and hot regions .
• Promote air circulation by clearing the center of the shrub when pruning.
• To combat anthracnose , spray with Bordeaux mixture at the end of winter or the beginning of spring (excluding periods of frost).

Curative treatments:

• In case of powdery mildew : remove and burn affected shoots.
• Against anthracnose : cut and burn the affected parts, avoid watering by sprinkling , and treat with Bordeaux mixture :
  • When the leaves fall
  • At the end of winter
  • Just before flowering
• Against aphids : spray a solution based on potassium soap or nettle manure , avoiding the period between flowering and harvest .

Size :

Prune at the end of winter , removing 1/3 of the old branches (4 years and older) to encourage the growth of new shoots . This operation is crucial because the blackcurrant bush bears fruit on the wood of the previous year .

Mulching:

Renew the mulch regularly to maintain soil moisture and enrich it as it decomposes .

By following these maintenance practices , you will promote the health and productivity of your blackcurrant bushes while minimizing the risk of disease and pest attacks .

---

Pruning blackcurrant bushes: effective techniques to stimulate fruiting in professional cultivation

Pruning the blackcurrant bush is a crucial step in optimizing its growth and production . Two types of pruning are essential: formative pruning and maintenance pruning .

Training size:

Formative pruning is carried out during the first 4 to 5 years after planting . It aims to shape the shrub into a bush .

• Every winter , we prune all the branches just above their first bud to stimulate their branching.
• This technique allows each branch to give rise to two new shoots , thus promoting a well-balanced structure .

An alternative method is to cut back a third of all branches the winter following planting, then allow the blackcurrant bush to grow freely for the next three years . This approach allows for a more natural development of the shrub.

Maintenance size:

Maintenance pruning, carried out annually in winter , aims to aerate the bush and stimulate fruit production . It includes several key stages:

• Removal of dead wood and diseased or damaged branches .
• Removal of branches that grow horizontally or inward from the shrub to promote light penetration .
• Shortening about one-third of the stems formed on two-year-old wood to stimulate new shoots .
• Keep 10 to 15 main branches to maintain optimal balance .

It is crucial to understand that the blackcurrant bush produces its fruit on two-year-old branches . This particularity guides the choice of branches to keep or remove.

Wood renewal:

To maintain the vigor of the shrub:

• Remove 3 of the oldest stems , recognizable by their darker bark , by cutting them at the base .

Shape control:

If the blackcurrant bush only grows upwards without producing new shoots at the base:

• Cut back the branches of the year so that they only bear 3 to 5 buds .
• The main branches can also be shortened by about a third of their length to encourage the development of new stems at the base .

By applying these specific pruning techniques , growers can significantly improve the growth and production of their blackcurrant bushes, while maintaining healthy and vigorous shrubs over the long term.

---

Common blackcurrant diseases: how to prevent and treat them effectively in professional cultivation

Blackcurrant bushes are prone to several common diseases that can affect their health and productivity . Early identification and appropriate solutions are essential to maintain plant vigor.

Powdery mildew:

A common disease, it manifests itself by a white felting on the leaves , stems and immature fruits .

• Prevention: Space plantings sufficiently and avoid watering the foliage .
• Treatment: Remove the affected parts and treat with a horsetail decoction or a sulfur-based product .

Anthracnose:

It causes angular brown spots on the leaves, which eventually wilt and fall off .

• Prevention: Mulch the soil and apply Bordeaux mixture in late winter or early spring.
• Treatment: Cut and burn the affected parts, avoid spraying , and repeat the treatment .

The reversion of blackcurrant:

Caused by the mite Cecidophyopsis ribis , it results in abnormally swollen buds .

• Prevention: Choose resistant varieties .
• Treatment: Remove affected branches and burn them.

Blackcurrant mite:

A microscopic mite also causes swelling of the buds .

• Treatment: Remove the affected branches and apply a mixture of sulfur and Bordeaux mixture .

Biological approach:

Using blackcurrant bud macerates naturally strengthens the plants' resistance to disease. These preparations stimulate the plant's natural defenses .

Additional measures:

• Crop rotation or replacement with resistant varieties if problems persist.
• Maintain good plot hygiene :
  • Regular removal of plant debris
  • Disinfection of pruning tools

Adopting these preventive and curative practices , combined with regular monitoring , will help maintain the health and productivity of your blackcurrant bushes, whether you are growing them organically or conventionally .

---

Blackcurrant pests: identification and integrated control strategies to protect your crops

Blackcurrant bushes are prone to several pests and diseases that can significantly affect their health and productivity . Early identification and an integrated pest management approach are essential for effective crop protection.

White mulberry scale (Pseudaulacaspis pentagona):

This pest, which has been resurgent for around fifteen years , is responsible for severe dieback in blackcurrant plots.

It is characterized by a waxy shield which protects it from attacks, making conventional insecticides ineffective .

• Regular monitoring of plants for early detection
• Manual removal of heavily infested branches
• Use of natural predators such as the ladybug Rhizobius lophantae (variable effectiveness, high cost)
• Application of white oils in winter to smother the larvae

Aphids (Aphis schneideri and Cryptomyzus ribis):

These sucking insects cause leaves to curl and young shoots to stop growing .

• Encourage natural helpers : ladybugs, hoverflies, lacewings
• Use fern manure or black soap
• In case of severe infestation: specific insecticides approved for blackcurrants

Blackcurrant mite (Cecidophyopsis ribis):

Microscopic mite causing swollen buds and can transmit blackcurrant reversion .

• Choose resistant varieties
• Remove and burn affected branches
• Sulfur treatment at bud break

Gooseberry borer (Synanthedon tipuliformis):

The larvae dig galleries in the stems, causing them to dry out .

• Pheromone traps to capture males
• Prune and burn infested branches
• Use entomopathogenic nematodes (biological treatment)

Good preventive practices:

• Maintain good hygiene in the plot:
  • Remove plant debris
  • Disinfect tools
• Promoting biodiversity :
  • Install composite hedges
  • Set up flower strips to attract beneficial insects
• Crop rotation where possible
• Use resistant varieties adapted to your region

By adopting an integrated pest management approach combining these preventive and curative methods , producers can reduce the impact of pests while limiting the use of plant protection products .

---

Blackcurrant harvest: good professional practices to guarantee the commercial quality of the fruit

Harvesting blackcurrants is a crucial step in ensuring the commercial quality of the fruit . It generally takes place between the end of June and the end of July , or even until the beginning of September for the latest varieties.

Harvest time:

• Harvest the fruits when fully ripe , about a week after they turn a nice black color . At this stage, the berries are sweeter and more aromatic .
• Harvest early in the morning or early in the evening when the fruit is fresh. This practice promotes better preservation .

Harvesting method:

• Use small, sharp scissors or a special blueberry comb to pick the fruit without damaging it .
• Avoid harvesting wet berries to prevent disease development .
• Handle blackcurrants carefully to avoid damaging or crushing them.

Post-harvest storage:

• Place the fruit on a cloth in a basket to avoid shocks .
• Quickly bring the fruit into a cool, well-ventilated place .
• Sort to eliminate fruit showing signs of disease .

Mechanical harvesting:

For professional growers , mechanical harvesting is common. The fruit is immediately transported to its processing or storage location after picking. This method allows for fast and efficient harvesting over large areas.

Traceability:

Traceability is an important aspect of commercial production. Each plot must be identified with the name of the producer and the harvested variety . This ensures accurate tracking of production, from harvest to the end customer.

Conservation :

• Blackcurrants can be kept cool (0°C) for 2 to 3 weeks without noticeable deterioration.
• For long-term storage , freezing extends use for up to two years .

By following these professional recommendations , producers can ensure an efficient harvest while preserving the commercial quality of blackcurrants, thus guaranteeing consumer satisfaction and optimal value for their production .

---

Propagating blackcurrant: which method should you choose for professional market gardening?

Blackcurrant is easily propagated by several methods, each with advantages and limitations for professional production :

Cuttings:

This is the most commonly used and effective method for large-scale propagation of blackcurrant bushes.

Wood cuttings are taken in autumn or spring , by taking 20 to 30 cm branches from the wood of the year. The cuttings are then planted directly in the ground or in a nursery.

Benefits :

• Simple and economical technique
• High success rate
• Rapid and large multiplication

Boundaries :

• Requires careful management of mother plants
• Risk of disease transmission if mother plants are infected

Layering:

This technique involves burying part of a branch still attached to the mother plant so that it can take root. Although less common in professional production , it can be useful for certain varieties that are difficult to propagate .

Benefits :

• Safe method with high success rate
• Allows you to obtain more vigorous plants

Boundaries :

• Slower process than cuttings
• Less suitable for mass production

Division:

Clump division consists of separating a mother plant into several parts, each containing roots and stems . This method is rarely used in intensive production .

Benefits :

• Allows you to quickly obtain large plants
• Useful for rejuvenating old plants

Boundaries :

• Method limited in number of plants obtained
• Risk of stress for the mother plant

For professional production , cuttings remain the preferred method due to its simplicity , efficiency and ability to produce a large number of identical plants .

However, the combination of several methods can allow optimal management of resources and adaptation to the specificities of each blackcurrant variety .

---

Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) botanical information: key characteristics for professional growers

Blackcurrant ( Ribes nigrum ) is a fruit shrub of the Grossulariaceae family, native to Europe and northern Asia . This species is characterized by its production of small, edible black berries , rich in vitamin C and antioxidants .

Morphological characteristics:

• Shape : Deciduous shrub reaching 1 to 2 meters in height , with erect and branched stems .
• Leaves : Alternate, palmately lobed with 3-5 lobes , dark green in color, giving off a characteristic odor due to the presence of aromatic glands .
• Flowers : Small , greenish to pinkish, grouped in hanging clusters .
• Fruits : Spherical berries 6 to 10 mm in diameter, black when ripe , containing numerous small seeds .

Botanical classification:

• Kingdom : Plantae
• Clade : Angiosperms
• Clade : Eudicotyledons
• Order : Saxifragales
• Family : Grossulariaceae
• Genre : Ribes
• Species : Ribes nigrum

Genetic and ecophysiological information:

• Diploid species with 2n = 16 chromosomes .
• Self-fertile , but cross-pollination improves fruiting .
• Suitable for temperate climates , withstands temperatures down to -35°C .

Biological characteristics and cultural implications:

• Produces its fruit on the wood of the previous year , which directly influences pruning techniques .
• Has a shallow root system , making the species sensitive to drought . Particular attention to irrigation is required, especially in the first few years .

Ecological role:

The blackcurrant tree plays an important ecological role by providing food and shelter to various species of pollinators and birds . Its cultivation is part of an approach to preserving biodiversity , while offering real economic opportunities to small fruit producers.

---

Origin and history of blackcurrant cultivation: from medicinal garden to professional production

Blackcurrant ( Ribes nigrum ) is native to temperate regions of northern Europe and central and northern Asia . Although it has grown wild for millennia, its domestication as a cultivated plant is relatively recent in the history of agriculture.

The first cultures: 11th - 16th century

• 11th century : First mentions of cultivation in Russia , notably in monastery gardens .
• 16th century : Development in Western Europe , particularly in France , where it is cultivated in the west and the Loire Valley .
• Then called "Poitevin cassava" or "pepper tree" , it was first cultivated for its leaves with medicinal properties .

18th century: The medicinal boom

At the beginning of the 18th century , the French discovered the therapeutic virtues of blackcurrant: against migraines , fever and rheumatism .

It then became very present in French gardens until the end of the century when its use declined.

19th century: Renaissance and promotion of fruit

• Mid-19th century : Gradual revival of blackcurrant cultivation in France.
• 1841 : Historic turning point in Dijon with the creation of the first crème de cassis by Auguste-Denis Lagoute and his distiller Joly .
• This innovation revived the cultivation of blackcurrant , particularly in Burgundy .

Modern production in France

• The culture gradually spread to other regions: Loire Valley , Oise , Rhône Valley .
• France has now become the 3rd largest producer of blackcurrants in Europe and the 4th largest in the world .
• The Loire Valley represents more than 30% of national production .

From medicinal to gastronomic

The history of blackcurrant in France illustrates how a plant valued for its medicinal properties has become an emblematic fruit of gastronomy , notably thanks to its use in liqueur and other processed drinks.