CASSEILLE Jogusto® Bio Plant - 2 L pot, height 50 cm

The blackcurrant, a hybrid fruit resulting from a cross between the blackcurrant and the gooseberry, appeals to professional market gardeners with its robustness, productivity, and taste. Successful cultivation requires choosing certified and suitable plants, taking into account quality criteria, available plant types, optimal planting conditions, and specific cultivation practices to ensure profitable and sustainable production.

How to choose the right blackcurrant plants for successful market gardening

To successfully purchase professional currant plants , several essential criteria must be taken into account:

Health quality of plants

The health of the plants is essential. Check the general condition of the plants , which should be stocky , branched and have shiny foliage . Healthy and vigorous plants will have a better chance of establishing themselves well and producing abundantly.

Adaptation to the terroir

Choose varieties that are suited to your local area and climate . This will promote better growth and disease resistance . Consult specialist nurserymen for information on the most suitable cultivars for your region.

Plant certification

Plant certification is a guarantee of quality. Choose certified plants , guaranteeing their varietal authenticity and health . This ensures you get exactly the varieties you want .

Purchase from professional suppliers

Purchasing from professional suppliers has many advantages:

• Superior quality plants, selected and grown according to rigorous standards .
• Better yield thanks to high-performance varieties and vigorous plants from the start.
• Personalized monitoring and advice to optimize your production.
• Access to innovative varieties resulting from agronomic research .

Proximity to the supplier

The geographical proximity of the supplier is an advantage, facilitating the transport of plants and reducing costs . If possible, favor a local producer who is familiar with the specificities of your region .

Guarantees and after-sales services

Finally, don't hesitate to ask for guarantees on the recovery of the plants and to inquire about the after-sales services offered. A good supplier will be able to support you throughout the development of your blackcurrant crop .

By investing in quality professional plants , you are laying the foundations for successful and profitable blackcurrant production for your market gardening operation .

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Types of Currant Plants: How to Choose the Best One for Your Vegetable Garden

To choose the type of currant plant best suited to your farm , it is essential to understand the specificities of each option :

Plants in alveoli

Cell-planted plants offer excellent value for money for large areas . Their compact root system makes mechanical planting easy, but requires careful irrigation at the start. Ideal for professionals equipped with planting equipment .

Mini-clods

Mini-clods have the advantage of rapid recovery thanks to their clod of soil protecting the roots. They are particularly suitable for currants because they allow good initial root development while remaining economical . Their small size facilitates manual planting on small areas .

Bare-root plants

Bare-root plants , although more delicate to handle , remain an economical option for winter planting of gooseberries. However, they require increased technical skill during planting to ensure good recovery .

Forestry buckets

Forestry pots , with their elongated shape , are particularly recommended for gooseberries. They promote deep rooting and prevent chignonisation , a common problem with fruit shrubs. This type of packaging ensures better adaptation to the terrain and faster growth .

Potted plants

Potted plants , although more expensive , offer significant planting flexibility . For gooseberries, they allow for faster production , which can be useful for staggering harvests or replacing defective plants in an existing plot.

Selection criteria for professionals

For a professional blackcurrant farm , the choice between these different types of plants will depend on several factors :

• The area to be planted : cells or mini-clods for large areas, pots or pots for small plots.
• Planting schedule : bare roots for winter planting, potted plants for greater seasonal flexibility.
• Available equipment : mechanical planting with alveoli, manual with buckets.
• Production objectives : potted plants for faster fruiting, plants in cells for a lower initial investment.

Choosing certified plants that are suited to the soil and climate conditions of your region is crucial to ensuring the success of your currant crop . A specialist supplier will be able to advise you on the most suitable varieties and the optimal type of plant for your specific situation.

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Which varieties of blackcurrant should you choose for a spread-out and profitable harvest?

Unlike other small fruits such as strawberries or raspberries , there are no ever-bearing varieties of gooseberries. The gooseberry , being a hybrid between the blackcurrant and the gooseberry , does not naturally have this everbearing characteristic.

However, for market gardening professionals wishing to optimize their blackcurrant production , there are early and late varieties that allow the harvest to be spread over a longer period. Here is a selection of the best varieties recommended for professionals:

Josta

This early variety offers an abundant production of large black fruits with a balanced flavor between the acidity of blackcurrant and the sweetness of redcurrant .

Neva (Chereshnevas)

This modern variety is resistant to cold and disease . It produces very large grains with tasty and fragrant pulp , with moderate acidity . It adapts well to neutral and fresh soils , preferring a semi-shaded exposure .

To maximize the harvest period , professionals can combine these varieties with different ripening periods. For example, by combining Andega (early) with Neva (later) , it is possible to extend the production season .

It is important to note that even though these varieties are not remontant , they offer interesting characteristics for professional producers , such as good resistance to diseases , high productivity and taste qualities appreciated by consumers.

To optimize the cultivation of currants , professionals must pay particular attention to soil preparation , irrigation and pruning of plants . These cultural practices , combined with the judicious choice of varieties , will allow for a quality and profitable production, even in the absence of everbearing varieties.

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Blackcurrant planting calendar: when to plant to ensure optimal recovery and high yields?

The planting period for gooseberries is a crucial factor in ensuring good plant recovery and maximizing future yields . For market gardening professionals , it is recommended to plant gooseberries either in the fall , from September to November , or in the spring , from February to May .

Benefits of Fall Planting

• It allows plants to develop their root system before winter, promoting better recovery the following spring.
• The plants benefit from autumn rainfall , reducing irrigation needs .
• The vegetation is less stressed by the heat, which facilitates rooting .

However, in areas with harsh winters , it is best to opt for spring planting to avoid frost damage to young plants.

Benefits of Spring Planting

• It helps avoid the risk of winter frost for young plants.
• The soil gradually warms up , promoting rapid recovery of vegetation .
• Spring rainfall facilitates rooting .

It is important to note that planting must be carried out outside of frost periods . To optimize the recovery and growth of the currants, it is advisable to:

• Prepare the soil thoroughly before planting to promote good rooting .
• Space the plants approximately 1.20 m apart to allow for optimal development .
• Choose a sunny location , as blackcurrant needs full sun for abundant production .

For professionals aiming for staggered production , it is advisable to plant different varieties with different ripening periods. For example, by combining early varieties such as Andega with later varieties , it is possible to extend the harvest period from June to August .

Finally, it is crucial to take into account that the first significant harvest will not occur until 2 years after planting . Careful planning of the planting schedule is therefore essential to ensure regular and profitable production in the long term .

Ideal conditions for successful professional planting of black currants

For successful professional cultivation of blackcurrants , it is essential to respect certain ideal planting conditions :

Exposure

Blackcurrants require a sunny exposure for optimal fruiting . However, in southern regions , partial shade is preferable to prevent the leaves from drying out . A location sheltered from cold winds and spring frosts is recommended to protect early flowering .

Ground

Gooseberries adapt to a variety of soil types , but prefer deep , cool-in-summer , slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6-7), organic-rich , and well-drained soil. Avoid soils that are too chalky or compact . Adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting will promote good growth .

Climate

Very hardy , gooseberries can withstand temperatures down to -20°C . A cold spell is even beneficial for better fruiting . However, they fear drought , especially when they are young .

Planting distances

For professional cultivation , space the plants 1.50 m to 2 m apart in a row . This distance allows for optimal development of the shrubs and facilitates maintenance and harvesting . For a fruit hedge , maintain a spacing of 1.20 m between the plants .

Planting

Dig a planting hole at least twice the size of the root ball . Lightly bury the base of the branches (about 5 cm below ground level) to encourage rooting and better establishment .

Irrigation

A drip irrigation system is recommended to maintain constant moisture , which is crucial for the first two years after planting.

Pollination

Although gooseberries are generally self-fertile , the presence of several varieties can improve pollination and therefore production .

By respecting these conditions , professional producers can optimize the growth and productivity of their currants, thus ensuring a profitable and quality crop.

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What soil for currants? Preparing the ideal soil for successful market gardening

Gooseberry adapts to various soil types , but certain conditions are particularly favorable for its growth and productivity. The ideal soil for growing gooseberries is deep , fresh , rich in organic matter and well-drained .

The optimal pH for growing currants is between 5.5 and 6.5 . This slight acidity promotes nutrient absorption by the roots. For soils that are too alkaline , regular addition of organic matter can help gradually lower the pH .

In terms of composition, a balanced soil for currant should contain approximately:

• 5-20% clay
• 15-20% silt
• 20-30% fine sand
• 30-50% coarse sand

This structure ensures both good water retention and efficient drainage , two crucial elements for the health of currant plants .

Drainage is indeed a crucial aspect for growing gooseberries. These shrubs do not appreciate excess water and are susceptible to root asphyxiation . In heavy or clayey soils , it is recommended to improve drainage by incorporating coarse sand , gravel or pozzolan .

Recommended Amendments

To enrich the soil and maintain its fertility , several amendments are beneficial:

• Compost or well-rotted manure : to be incorporated before planting to enrich the soil with organic matter and improve its structure .
• Nitrogen-rich potting soil : mix with garden soil when planting to stimulate initial growth .
• Organic mulch : a 30 cm layer of dead leaves or straw around the plants helps to maintain soil moisture and gradually enrich the substrate .
• Organic fertilizers : Regular additions of fish meal , roasted horn or mature compost can support the growth and production of blackcurrants.

In very calcareous soils , the addition of heather soil can help to slightly acidify the substrate and create more favorable conditions for the gooseberries.

By following these soil recommendations, currant growers can create an optimal environment for the growth and productivity of their plants, ensuring a bountiful, quality harvest .

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How to successfully start a professional currant plot: key steps for profitable cultivation

To successfully start a currant plot , here are the essential steps to follow:

Ground preparation

• Test the soil to determine the pH and any necessary amendments .
• Work the soil deeply (40-50 cm) to loosen it and encourage good rooting .
• Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil with organic matter .
• Ensure good drainage by adding coarse sand or gravel if the soil is too heavy.

Choice of varieties

• Select varieties suited to your climate and local conditions .
• Choose a mix of early and late varieties to spread out production, such as Josta (early) and Neva (late) .
• Choose disease-resistant varieties for easier maintenance, such as Andega or Neva .

Practical organization of plantations

• Plant preferably in autumn (September to November) or spring (February to May).
• Space plants 1.50 m to 2 m apart in a row for professional cultivation.
• Dig planting holes two to three times larger than the root ball.
• Lightly bury the base of the branches (about 5 cm) to encourage rooting.

Installation of the irrigation system

• Install a drip irrigation system to maintain constant humidity .
• Provide organic mulch (dead leaves, straw) to retain soil moisture .

Protection and initial maintenance

• Install rodent and deer protection if necessary.
• Perform formative pruning in the first year to promote a balanced plant structure .

Production planning

• Anticipate that the first significant harvest will not occur until 2 years after planting .
• Plan a suitable fertilization plan to support plant growth and productivity .

By following these steps, you will lay the foundation for a productive and profitable currant plot . Remember to regularly monitor the health of the plants and adjust your practices based on field observations .

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Beneficial associations for growing blackcurrants: varieties, companion plants and biodiversity to enhance productivity

The right combination of currant varieties and their association with companion plants can greatly improve the productivity and health of your crop . Here are the best practices to optimize your plantings:

Association of varieties for cross-pollination

Combining different varieties of gooseberries helps improve cross-pollination , thus increasing yields . Although most gooseberries are self-fertile , the presence of several varieties can boost fruit production . For example, combine the Josta variety with Andega to benefit from an extended harvest period and better pollination .

Promote natural pollination

It is recommended to install honeybee hives (2 to 4 hives per hectare) or bumblebee colonies (1 to 2 colonies per 1000 m²) near your plots. These pollinators will significantly contribute to improving fruiting .

Integration of honey plants

Incorporating honey plants into or near your plot will attract more pollinators. Species such as lavender , buttercup , dahlias , borage , sunflowers , and thyme are particularly beneficial. These plants, in addition to attracting beneficial insects , can also serve as a natural barrier against certain pests .

Companion planting and aromatic plants

Companion planting , an ancestral technique confirmed by scientific research, can increase yields by 1 to 110% depending on the climate and the type of crop. For gooseberries, combine them with aromatic plants such as mint or basil , which naturally repel certain harmful insects .

Fruit hedges and biodiversity

Creating a diverse hedge including currants , gooseberries and raspberries can form a natural protective barrier while increasing the biodiversity of your plot. This plant diversity contributes to the overall resilience of your crop against diseases and pests .

Prevention of fungal diseases

To combat fungal diseases like powdery mildew , which some currant varieties are resistant to, plant garlic or onions nearby. These plants have natural antifungal properties that can benefit your currants.

Flower strips and honey-producing hedges

Incorporating flower strips or honey-producing hedges around your currant plots will encourage the presence of pollinators , but will also create a habitat for natural predators of pests , thus contributing to an ecological balance that is beneficial to your crop.

By adopting these combination and association strategies , you will create a diverse and resilient ecosystem around your blackcurrants, promoting abundant and quality production while reducing dependence on chemical inputs .

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Caring for Blackcurrants: Key Practices for a Productive and Sustainable Crop

Caring for your blackcurrant plants is essential to ensure abundant and high- quality production. Here are the main aspects to consider:

Watering

Gooseberries thrive in moist but well-drained soil . Regular watering is crucial, especially during the first two years after planting to promote good rooting . During the growing and fruiting periods, keep the soil constantly moist but not soggy. An organic mulch around the base of the shrub helps retain moisture and limits watering .

Fertilization

In spring , before flowering, apply a nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer to stimulate vegetative growth . A mixture of compost and well-rotted manure is ideal. In summer , choose a fertilizer richer in potash and phosphorus to promote fruiting . A monthly application of liquid fertilizer from May to August can also boost production .

Preventive treatments

Prevention is key to maintaining healthy currants. Regular mulching helps prevent disease by maintaining a good water balance . In early spring , spraying with Bordeaux mixture can prevent fungal diseases . Planting companion plants such as garlic or onions can also act as a natural barrier against certain pests .

Curative treatments

In case of attack by aphids or insect larvae such as the gooseberry sawfly , a treatment with black soap or neem oil can be effective. For powdery mildew , a common fungal disease , a sulfur treatment can be applied as soon as the first symptoms appear. In case of anthracnose , a disease to which gooseberries can be susceptible, an appropriate fungicide treatment must be applied quickly.

Size

Pruning is a crucial aspect of currant maintenance. It is carried out at the end of winter and consists of removing 1/4 to 1/3 of the oldest branches to rejuvenate and aerate the foliage . This operation encourages the production of new fruiting branches and maintains the vigor of the shrub .

Renewal

Every 3 years , it is recommended to repot potted currants in a new substrate to maintain their vitality. For plants in the ground , a regular addition of compost and annual mulching are generally sufficient to maintain soil fertility .

By following these maintenance practices , gooseberry growers can optimize the health and productivity of their plants, ensuring abundant , quality harvests over the long term .

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Blackcurrant Pruning Techniques: How to Boost Your Production Sustainably

Pruning and training currants are essential to optimize their growth and production . Here are the specific techniques recommended for professional growers:

Training size

• From the first year of planting, start to train the black currant bush into a bush .
• Prune all branches just above their first bud every winter for 4 to 5 years to encourage branching.
• This technique allows each branch to give rise to two new shoots , thus creating a well-balanced structure .
• An alternative method is to cut back ⅓ of all branches in the winter of planting, then allow the blackcurrant bush to grow freely for the next 3 years—a useful approach for large-scale operations .

Maintenance size

• Once the black currant bush is mature, carry out annual maintenance pruning in winter to aerate and clean the shrub .
• Remove dead and broken branches , as well as those that cross or grow inward from the bush.
• This practice improves air circulation and light exposure , thus reducing the risk of fungal diseases .
• To stimulate production , cut 3 of the oldest stems at the base , recognizable by their darker bark .

Fruiting size

• Blackcurrants produce their fruit on two-year-old wood .
• To maximize the harvest , focus on two-year-old stems and shorten them by about a third .
• This operation stimulates the production of new shoots and maintains the vigor of the shrub.
• Maintain a balance of 10 to 15 main branches for good fruit distribution and easier harvesting .

Rejuvenation size

• If your blackcurrant bush grows mainly upwards without new shoots at its base , carry out severe rejuvenation pruning .
• Cut back the branches of the year to keep only 3 to 5 buds .
• Shorten the main branches by about 1/3 of their length .
• This intervention stimulates the development of new stems at the base of the shrub.

Pruning period

Pruning blackcurrants is ideally done in February-March , during the dormant period but before bud break . This period allows the shrub to heal quickly and mobilize its reserves for spring growth.

By applying these specific pruning techniques , currant growers can significantly improve the structure, health and productivity of their bushes. Proper pruning promotes better exposure of the fruit to the sun , facilitates harvesting and helps maintain abundant and quality production over the long term .

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Blackcurrant Diseases : Prevention, Identification, and Treatment for a Healthy and Productive Crop

Blackcurrants , although generally resistant , can be affected by some common diseases . Early identification and appropriate solutions are essential to maintain plant health and productivity .

Powdery mildew

Powdery mildew is one of the most common diseases of blackcurrants. It appears as a white coating on the leaves, stems and immature fruits.

• Prevention : Ensure good air circulation by pruning regularly and avoid watering the foliage .
• Biological treatment : Spray a horsetail decoction or a sulfur-based product .
• Conventional treatment : Use approved fungicides at recommended dosages .

Anthracnose

Anthracnose is a fungal disease characterized by brown spots on leaves, stems and fruits.

• Prevention : Avoid excessive nitrogen inputs and maintain good aeration of the plants.
• Organic treatment : Apply Bordeaux mixture when the leaves fall and in early spring. Also use a horsetail decoction twice a week during cultivation.

Rust

Rust appears as orange or yellow pustules in spring, which turn brown in summer and winter.

• Prevention : Use a horsetail decoction diluted to 15% as a preventative treatment.
• Curative treatment : Collect and burn fallen leaves and fruit , then apply Bordeaux mixture .

The yellow gooseberry aphid (Cryptomyzus ribis)

This pest causes deformations and galls on leaves.

• Natural prevention : Encourage the presence of natural helpers such as ladybugs and lacewings .
• Biological treatment : Spray a solution of black soap or neem oil .
• Conventional treatment : As a last resort, use insecticides based on deltamethrin or lambda-cyhalothrin .

Natural resistance and good practices

Blackcurrants are generally more disease resistant than their relatives, the blackcurrant and gooseberry . Some varieties such as Andega and Neva are particularly resistant .

For effective disease management :

• Adopt a preventive approach : hygiene in the plot, choice of resistant varieties , crop rotation .
• In case of disease, act quickly : remove infected parts, carry out appropriate pruning, apply appropriate treatments .
• Favor organic solutions whenever possible.

Regular monitoring and help limit the impact of diseases while maintaining profitable and sustainable production .

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Integrated Pest Management of Blackcurrants : Effective Strategies for Healthy and Sustainable Crops

Blackcurrants , although generally resistant , can be affected by certain pests and parasites . Rapid identification and an integrated pest management approach are essential to effectively protect crops .

Yellow gooseberry aphid (Cryptomyzus ribis)

This pest causes deformations and galls on leaves, affecting plant growth and productivity.

• Prevention : Encourage the presence of natural helpers such as ladybugs and lacewings by planting attractive companion plants such as borage or marigold .
• Treatment : Spray a solution of black soap or neem oil in case of an attack.

Gooseberry sawfly (Nematus ribesii)

The larvae of this insect quickly devour the leaves, causing significant defoliation .

• Monitoring : Regularly inspect the underside of leaves and manually remove larvae as soon as they appear.
• Biocontrol : Use Bacillus thuringiensis in case of severe infestation.

Gooseberry midge (Dasineura tetensi)

This pest lays its eggs in the buds , causing them to become deformed and affecting production.

• Prevention : Install pheromone traps to detect the insect early.
• Intervention : Prune and destroy affected buds to limit spread.

Integrated pest management strategy

For effective pest management , take a multi-method approach:

• Prevention : Choose resistant varieties like Andega or Neva , and maintain good hygiene in the plot.
• Monitoring : Inspect plants regularly to detect infestations early .
• Cultivation methods : Practice crop rotation and integrate companion plants to promote biodiversity .
• Biological control : Encourage the presence of natural auxiliaries and use biocontrol products such as Bacillus thuringiensis .
• Chemical treatments : As a last resort , use approved insecticides , respecting the dosages and pre-harvest times .

Physical protection

Insect netting can be a very effective solution against flying pests. Fine-mesh models such as Biothrips® or Filbio® can be installed around plants or as a complete cover for the plot.

By adopting these integrated pest management practices , blackcurrant producers can significantly reduce the impact of pests while preserving the ecological balance of their farm. This approach helps maintain quality production while minimizing the use of plant protection products , thus meeting consumer expectations in terms of respect for the environment and fruit quality.

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Harvesting blackcurrants: best practices to ensure commercial quality and maximize yields

Harvesting blackcurrants is a crucial step in ensuring the commercial quality of the fruit. It generally takes place in July and lasts approximately 15 days . For an optimal harvest, it is essential to correctly identify the moment of maturity .

Maturity stage

Blackcurrants are ready to be picked when they turn black and their skin becomes supple . It is important not to rush the harvest , as the fruit continues to ripen and develop its flavor until the last moment. However, harvesting too late can result in a loss of firmness and reduced shelf life .

Harvesting technique

To preserve the commercial quality of the blackcurrants, the harvesting technique is essential:

• Do not pull on the fruit , but cut the bunches with scissors .
• This method helps prevent damage to fruit and branches , thus preserving future production .

Harvest conditions

• Harvest in dry weather to avoid mold growth.
• Harvest early in the morning or late in the day , when temperatures are cooler, to preserve fruit freshness .

Handling and transport

• Use shallow containers , such as trays or crates , to avoid crushing the fruit .
• Because currants are delicate , do not stack them more than two or three layers high .

Post-harvest cooling

To maintain the quality of the blackcurrants after harvest:

• Cool the fruit quickly .
• A transfer to a cold room at around 2°C slows down maturation and prolongs storage .

Harvest staggering

For professional producers , staggering the harvest is a strategic lever:

• Combine early varieties like Josta with later varieties like Rita .
• This allows the harvest period to be extended by almost a month, optimizing production management and the availability of fruit on the market .

Protection against birds

To protect the harvest from birds , which are particularly attracted to ripe fruit:

• Install safety nets .
• This measure helps to avoid significant losses and guarantees an abundant and quality harvest .

By following these recommendations, blackcurrant growers can ensure efficient harvesting while preserving the commercial quality of the fruit, thus meeting market requirements and maximizing the value of their production .

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Propagating black currants: which techniques should you choose for efficient professional production?

Propagating black currants can be done using several methods, each with its advantages and limitations for professional production :

Cuttings

Cuttings are the most common and effective method for propagating gooseberries.

• It is carried out from June to August or during the winter in the absence of frost .
• Take branches from the year , smooth and brown, with long internodes .
• Cut segments of 30-40 cm , keep 3 leaves at the top and remove the others.
• Plant the cuttings in fresh, shaded soil , about 10 cm deep .
• Success rate : around 70-80% .

This method allows rapid and economical multiplication , ideal for large productions .

Layering

Layering offers a higher success rate , around 90-95% .

• Technique consisting of developing roots on a branch still attached to the mother plant.
• Allows you to obtain more vigorous plants than cuttings, thanks to the support of the mother plant during their development.
• Less suitable for large volume production as it produces fewer plants .

Division

Division is a simple technique that involves separating clumps into several parts, each with its own roots .

• Helps rejuvenate older plants .
• Provides mature plants quickly .
• Limitation : not suitable for large-scale production .

In vitro multiplication

In vitro multiplication is a modern method suitable for large-volume production .

• Allows you to obtain healthy and uniform plants .
• Requires specialized equipment and technical skills .
• Less accessible for small farms .

Grafting

Grafting allows the characteristics of different varieties to be combined .

• Recovery rate : approximately 60-70% .
• Complex and time-consuming technique.

Conclusion

For professional production of cassia :

• Cuttings remain the most efficient and economical method for large-scale propagation .
• Layering can be used as a supplement to obtain more vigorous plants .
• In vitro multiplication should be considered for large-scale operations .

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Casseille: complete botanical information sheet to better understand and cultivate this hybrid species

The blackcurrant , also known as the gooseberry or blackcurrant , is an intergeneric hybrid resulting from the cross between the blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) and the gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa) . This fruit shrub belongs to the Grossulariaceae family, which includes gooseberries and blackcurrants .

Botanically, the gooseberry is classified in the genus Ribes , which includes about 150 species of edible fruiting shrubs . Its full classification is as follows:

• Kingdom : Plantae
• Division : Magnoliophyta
• Class : Magnoliopsida
• Order : Saxifragales
• Family : Grossulariaceae
• Genre : Ribes
• Species : Ribes × nidigrolaria

The main biological characteristics of the gooseberry combine those of its relatives. It is a deciduous shrub , usually reaching a height of 1 to 1.5 meters . Its leaves are alternate, palmately lobed , resembling those of the blackcurrant but generally larger .

The gooseberry produces hermaphrodite, self-fertile flowers that appear in spring . These flowers are grouped in hanging clusters , similar to those of the blackcurrant but longer .

Blackcurrant fruits are globose berries , larger than blackcurrants but smaller than gooseberries. Their color varies from black to dark purple when ripe. The skin is smooth and thin , unlike that of the gooseberry, which is thicker and sometimes pubescent.

A notable characteristic of the blackcurrant is its hardiness . It is able to withstand temperatures down to -20°C , making it suitable for a wide range of temperate climates . In addition, it inherits the disease resistance of the blackcurrant, especially powdery mildew , while retaining the high productivity of the gooseberry.

The currant is of particular agronomic interest due to its hybrid vigor , or heterosis , which gives it rapid growth and higher productivity than its parents. This characteristic, combined with its resistance to diseases , makes it an attractive crop for professional producers .

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History of blackcurrant: origin, varietal selection and agronomic potential for producers

The blackcurrant , a hybrid between the blackcurrant and the gooseberry , is a relatively recent creation in the history of horticulture. Its origin dates back to the early 1980s in Germany , where researchers developed this intergeneric hybrid with the aim of combining the best characteristics of its parents .

The development of the blackcurrant is part of a long tradition of growing small fruits in Europe :

• Blackcurrant was already cultivated in Russia in the 11th century in monastery gardens .
• In France , blackcurrant cultivation developed in the 18th century , particularly after the publication of works praising its medicinal virtues .
• The gooseberry , for its part, appears in botanical writings of the 16th century and then spread widely in Western Europe for its culinary qualities .

The hybridization that gave rise to the blackcurrant is the result of scientific research aimed at creating a fruit that combines the disease resistance of blackcurrant with the productivity of gooseberry .

The first commercial variety of gooseberry, named 'Josta' or 'Jostaberry' , was developed in Germany and introduced to the market in the early 1980s .

Since then, the cultivation of cassia has gradually spread to other European countries, particularly in France , where it has found its place in both family gardens and professional farms . However, its notoriety remains lower than that of its relatives, due to its recent creation and still limited distribution .

The evolution of currant cultivation is marked by the appearance of new varieties aimed at improving its taste qualities and its resistance to diseases . Among these:

• 'Jostine'
• 'Jogranda'

These varieties have been developed to meet growers' expectations in terms of yield and resilience , while meeting consumer demands.

Today, the blackcurrant represents a promising niche crop for berry growers , offering a unique alternative to traditional red fruits. Its history, although short, illustrates the continuing efforts of modern horticulture to develop high-performance hybrid species , combining productivity , disease resistance and taste qualities .

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