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Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - Rooted cutting, height 60–80 cm

Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - Rooted cutting, height 60–80 cm

Price € excluding VAT per unit excluding transport. Our prices are based on volume. We offer you the best option based on your needs.

€0,88 EUR
€0,88 EUR
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  • Delivery from 10 plants within 15 days FR/ EU / CH

When to Plant / When to Harvest Blackcurrants?

Do you want to grow blackcurrants but don't know when to plant them? Do you want to know when you'll harvest them? Consult our Blackcurrant Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Titania Blackcurrant plant at producer prices for professional market gardeners

Technical sheet of the Titania blackcurrant variety

  • Skin color: Shiny black
  • Size and shape: Large berries (about 1 cm in diameter), round in shape
  • Tree Size: Reaching 1.5 to 2 meters in height and about 1 meter in width
  • Fruit maturity: End of July
  • Fruit taste: Slightly acidic, slightly sweet, with a favorable sugar-acidity balance
  • Earliness of the variety: Later than 'Andega' or 'Géant de Boskoop'
  • Fruiting period End of July, over a period of approximately 2 weeks
  • Disease resistance and storage: Good resistance to powdery mildew. Good post-harvest storage (up to 1 week at 4°C).
  • Variety yield: Very productive, up to 5-7 kg of fruit per plant per year
  • Is this variety self-fertile? Yes
  • Commercial use: Industrial processing (jams, juices, pies, blackcurrant wines/liqueurs). May be suitable for fresh sale.
  • Comments: Easy to pick (long, full bunches, uniform fruit ripening, large berries). Less sensitive to spring frost than other varieties. Hardy (down to -20°C). Developed in Germany. Latin name: Ribes nigrum 'Titania'.

Quick read / the essentials on Cassissier Titania

The Titania blackcurrant is an essential reference for growers looking for performance, hardiness, and ease of management. Developed in Germany in the 1970s, this cultivar is the result of a complex crossbreeding aimed at combining size, resistance, and yield. Today, buying Titania blackcurrant plants is a wise choice for growers looking for reliability. This blackcurrant produces large, round fruits (about 1 cm), with intense black skin and juicy flesh, perfectly balancing sugar and acidity. Thanks to this taste quality and its good post-harvest stability, it is suitable for both industrial processing and fresh sale.

In terms of cultivation, Titania has an upright habit, vigorous growth, and rapid fruiting (from the 2nd or 3rd year). It reaches its full production capacity between 3.5 and 7 kg per plant, and up to 12 tonnes/hectare in optimal conditions. Resistant to diseases (powdery mildew, blister rust, downy mildew) and hardy down to -30°C, it reduces the need for treatments while ensuring sustainable productivity. For professionals who wish to buy Titania blackcurrant plants in batches, Bairiverse positions itself as a specialist wholesale supplier of blueberry plants , capable of offering consistent quality, technical support and competitive prices.

Choosing Bairiverse means benefiting from the expertise of a specialist wholesale supplier of blueberry plants , recognized for its varietal requirements and the reliability of its supplies. Whether you are growing for direct sale, processing or export, at Bairiverse you will find tailor-made solutions for purchasing Titania blackcurrant plants under the best conditions.

Titania Blackcurrant

Titania Blackcurrant ( Ribes nigrum 'Titania') is a blackcurrant variety developed in Germany in the 1970s by Dr. Rudolf Bauer. It is the result of a complex cross between 'Consort', 'Kajaanin Musta', and 'Altai Dessert'. Officially introduced in 1977, it has been commercially available since 1984. This variety is now well established in professional production, particularly for processing.

Fruit characteristics

Titania produces large fruits , reaching about 1 cm in diameter , a size larger than that of classic varieties. They have a round shape and an intense black skin , sometimes blue-black or shiny black. The flesh is juicy, with a crisp skin and a very sweet, slightly acidic flavor . The sugar-acidity balance is favorable, which gives the fruits great versatility.

The fruits retain their freshness well, for up to 1 week at 4°C , a longer period than many other varieties, such as 'Ben Connan' or 'Big Ben'. This good post-harvest storage is an advantage for direct sales or transport to processing industries.

Plant characteristics

Titania is a vigorous, upright, highly branched, fast-growing shrub . It reaches its adult size in 2 to 5 years , reaching a height of 1.5 to 2 meters and a width of 1 to 1.5 meters . It forms a dense bush with generally 5 to 8 main branches , ideal for training into fruit hedges. It does not generally require staking , thanks to its robustness and natural structure.

The root system of Titania is superficial , with an average depth of 20 to 40 cm. It is therefore important to ensure constant soil moisture , especially in dry periods, while avoiding excess water to prevent root asphyxiation .

The productive lifespan is estimated at between 15 and 20 years , subject to adequate cultivation and regular pruning.

Disease resistance and hardiness

Titania is distinguished by excellent resistance to diseases , including:

  • American powdery mildew : resistance estimated at 90–95%

  • White pine blister rust : almost total resistance, greater than 98%

  • Downy mildew : good resistance, with a 70 to 80% reduction in infections

This robustness allows a significant reduction in phytosanitary treatments , with a positive impact on profitability and the environment.

In terms of hardiness, Titania can withstand winter temperatures down to -20°C, or even -30°C , making it well-suited to temperate to cold climates in France. It is also less sensitive to spring frosts than some other varieties.

Flowering, pollination and fruiting

Flowering occurs in April , over 2 to 3 weeks. Titania is self-fertile , which allows cultivation without the need for additional pollinators. However, to diversify production and extend the harvest period , association with other varieties can be beneficial.

The harvest generally takes place from the end of July to the beginning of August , over a period of 2 to 5 weeks . The ripening of the berries is uniform , facilitating mechanical harvesting or a single pass .

Yield and production

Titania is a very productive variety:

  • 3.5 to 4 kg per plant , with a potential of 5 to 7 kg in optimal conditions

  • 8 to 12 tonnes/hectare at full production with a density of 10,000 plants/ha

  • Based on 350 plants per 1,000 m² , the average yield is estimated at around 600 kg.

The first significant harvest is achieved in the 2nd or 3rd year after planting .

Commercial Use

Titania is particularly appreciated for industrial processing : jams, juices, pies, liqueurs and blackcurrant wines. Its high Brix level (between 16 and 23.6° Brix ) and its juice yield of 75 to 80% make it an excellent choice for agri-food uses.

It can also be suitable for fresh sale , thanks to the size of its fruits , their post-harvest stability , and their balanced flavor .


Size and cultivation management

Pruning is essential to maintain vigor and production. It is carried out during the winter dormancy period , between November and February:

  • Formative pruning in the first few years to structure the shrub

  • Annual maintenance pruning to remove branches older than 3-4 years

Proper aeration of the bush improves both yield and plant health.

Soil and cultural requirements

Titania prefers fresh, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6 to 7). Waterlogged soils should be avoided, as they can cause root asphyxiation .

Information on limestone tolerance is limited, but Titania's good growth in a variety of conditions demonstrates significant adaptability , provided soils are well prepared.

To summarize: Blackcurrant Titania

The Titania blackcurrant tree is a valuable ally for arborists seeking performance, hardiness, and profitability. This German cultivar, introduced in the 1980s, combines excellent disease and cold resistance with high productivity. It produces shiny, juicy black berries with a good sugar/acidity balance, ideal for processing (juice, jams, liqueurs) or selling fresh. With rapid fruit set and uniform ripeness that facilitates harvesting, buying Titania blackcurrant plants is a strategic decision for black fruit professionals.

Thanks to its natural robustness, Titania requires fewer phytosanitary interventions, which improves the profitability and environmental impact of the crop. Its capacity to produce up to 12 tonnes/hectare, its adaptability to temperate to cold climates, and its tolerance to varied soils make it a safe bet. Bairiverse , your specialist wholesale supplier of blueberry plants , offers this variety in optimal quality conditions, with technical support at every stage.

By choosing Bairiverse as your specialist wholesale supplier of blueberry plants , you benefit from a rigorously selected stock, reliable availability and advice tailored to your growing objectives. Whether you are starting an orchard or strengthening an existing plantation, buying Titania blackcurrant plants from Bairiverse means investing in a proven variety, dedicated to quality and yield.

  • Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - 5 L pot, 60 cm high

    Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - 5 L pot, 60 cm high

    Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - 5 L pot, 60 cm high

    €4,63 EUR
    €4,63 EUR
  • Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - 2 L pot, 60 cm high

    Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - 2 L pot, 60 cm high

    Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - 2 L pot, 60 cm high

    €3,19 EUR
    €3,19 EUR
  • Blackcurrant Titania Organic Plant - Bare roots, formed on 2–3 main branches

    Blackcurrant Titania Organic Plant - Bare roots, formed on 2–3 main branches

    Blackcurrant Titania Organic Plant - Bare roots, formed on 2–3 main branches

    €2,00 EUR
    €2,00 EUR
  • Organic BLACKCURRANT Titania Plant - Rooted cutting, height 80–100 cm

    Organic BLACKCURRANT Titania Plant - Rooted cutting, height 80–100 cm

    Organic BLACKCURRANT Titania Plant - Rooted cutting, height 80–100 cm

    €1,03 EUR
    €1,03 EUR
View all

Additional / Useful information:

Organic Titania Blackcurrant Plant - Rooted cutting, height 60–80 cm

Which variety of blackcurrant should you choose? Characteristics and uses of blackcurrants

How to choose your blackcurrant variety?

Do you want to plant blackcurrant bushes on your plot but don't know which blackcurrant variety to choose? This blackcurrant variety guide lists the main varieties along with their characteristics and uses. For farm sales, supermarket sales, or processing? There's something for everyone.

If you are looking for another variety of Blackcurrant , do not hesitate to contact us: contact us

Our ranges of Blackcurrants:

Organic Blackcurrant and Gooseberry Range for Professionals

Conventional Blackcurrant and Gooseberry Range for Professionals

Blackcurrant Variety Guides:

Variety Color of the
Fruits		 Remontante Precocity Productivity Fruit Size / Shape Disease Resistance / Hardiness Fruiting Period Taste Self-fertile
Andega Black Non-Rising Mid-Late High yield Large fruits Powdery mildew tolerant July to August Firm, aromatic flesh, few seeds Self-fertile. Produces abundant pollen.
Arno Dark blue Non-Rising Early Classic Large fruits Resistant to powdery mildew June Sweet flavor Self-fertile
Bigno Black Non-Rising Season Average Yield Big Fruits Resistant to powdery mildew End of June to beginning of July Slightly acidic. Used in freezing or for its buds in medicine.
Blackdown Dark black Non-Rising Mid-Late Good performance Classic Vigorous, adapts to all regions. Very good disease resistance. End of July Withstands cooking without bursting, perfect for processing Self-fertile
Black Burgundy Black Non-Rising Late Fairly low yield Average Susceptible to powdery mildew Mid-July Perfect for processing into alcohol. Firm. Great aromatic richness. Self-sterile. Requires pollinator such as Andega or Boskoop's Giant
Royal of Naples Dark Blue to Black Non-Rising Late Average Quite small Little susceptible to powdery mildew Mid-July Paired with Noir de Bourgogne for liqueur, very tangy Self-sterile. Pollinated by Blackdow
Tradimel Black Non-Rising Season Very good productivity Quite big Susceptible to powdery mildew July Strong acidity, leaf can be used for herbal tea Self-fertile
Boskoop Giant Glossy black Non-Rising Early Excellent performance Large sweet fruits Very susceptible to powdery mildew and anthracnose End of June to beginning of July Mild flavor, sweet and juicy pulp Self-sterile. Pollinator of Noir de Bourgogne, must be pollinated by Andega
Ben Alder Dark black Non-Rising Season Very high yield, widely used on large plots for processing into wine Small to medium sized berries, upright habit Good resistance to mildew. Very hardy, good resistance to cold. Remains attached for a short period. July to August Perfect variety for juices and wines Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Ben Connan Dark black Non-Rising Mid-Late Abundant production (up to 3.5KG per plant at maturity) Large berries. Medium-long stem. Very disease resistant, one of the hardiest varieties Mid-July to Mid-August Perfect variety for berry juice, excellent flavor Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Ben Lomond Dark black Non-Rising Mid-Late Very abundant production of large berries Very large fruits. Upright and compact bush shape. Very resistant to frost and powdery mildew Mid-July to Mid-August Delicious and sweet Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Ben Nevis Dark black Non-Rising Mid-Late Very high yield. Only slightly lower than Ben Lomond but easier to pick. Large, fragrant fruits. Very upright and vigorous bush. Resistant to major diseases. Hardy Mid-July to Mid-August (just before Ben Lomond) Excellent flavor. The fruits are suitable for all uses. Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Ben Sarek Dark black Non-Rising Mid-Early Very large harvest volume. Scottish variety that offers the highest yield (by quite a distance). The yield potential is exceptional. Large berries Very tolerant of frost and cold. The only drawback is that the branch can break under the weight of the fruit. Mid-June Excellent flavor. Suitable for processing and direct sale. Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Big Ben Glossy black Non-Rising Season High yield. Large harvest, up to 4.5 kg per bush. Fruit 2X larger than average (2.9G), making it one of the varieties with the largest fruits. Equivalent to Chandler for Blueberries Resistant to mildew and leaf spots Start to End of July Very sweet fruit. Ideal for fresh consumption. Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Hedda Glossy black Non-Rising Mid-Early Offers high yields with ease of maintenance Spherical, medium-sized fruit Resistant to all diseases except powdery mildew, to which it is slightly susceptible. Very hardy, lasting down to -34°C. Its hardiness makes it easy to maintain. Start to mid-July The sweetest blackcurrant variety. Perfect for juice, jam, or jelly. Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Silvergieter's Black Dark black Non-Rising Early Fairly decent performance Medium-sized fruit Susceptible to mildew and rust End of June to mid-July Taste of a mild acidity. Use: raw, jelly, jam, compote, juice, wine, liqueur Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Titania Glossy black Non-Rising Mid-Late Very productive variety (up to 4KG per plant) Large bunches but medium-sized berries Good disease resistance, very cold resistant (down to -29°C) End of July to mid-August Very suitable for making jam, juice, pie or wine. Do not pick too early as it will have a very acidic taste. Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed
Wellington XXX Glossy black Non-Rising Mid-Early Variety with high productivity Very large berries with very thick skin Highly disease resistant. Mildew resistant. Good resistance to high temperatures. Suitable for warm regions. Mid-June to early July Very juicy variety. Perfect for making juice or jam. Sweet and fragrant pulp. Self-fertile but better fruiting if crossed

Planting and harvesting calendar for blackcurrant bushes

When to plant blackcurrant bushes? When to harvest blackcurrants?

Do you want to start growing blackcurrants but don't know when to plant them? Do you also want to know when you'll be harvesting them?

On this page you will find the planting and harvesting periods for each variety of Blackcurrant.

Blackcurrant Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jul Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Harvest rate / Production yield
Blackcurrant
Andega 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Arno 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Bigno 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Blackdown 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
from Burgundy 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Royal Blackcurrant
from Naples 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Tradimel 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Giant Blackcurrant Bush
from Boskoop 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Ben Alder 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Ben Connan 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Ben Lomond 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Ben Nevis 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Ben Sarek 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Big Ben 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Hedda 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Silvergieter's Black 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Blackcurrant
Titania 		Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest
Cassissier Wellington XXX Planting 1 year after planting: small harvest
2 years after planting: first yield
Harvest

Andega blackcurrant: Planting and harvesting period

The Andega blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Andega blackcurrant bush is from July to August. The Andega blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Arno Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

The Arno blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Arno blackcurrant bush is in June. The Arno blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant Bigno: Planting and harvesting period

The Bigno blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Bigno blackcurrant bush is from late June to early July. The Bigno blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Blackdown Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

Blackdown blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Blackdown blackcurrant is the end of July. Blackdown blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant of Burgundy: Planting and harvesting period

The Black Burgundy Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Black Burgundy Blackcurrant is mid-July. The Black Burgundy Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Royal Blackcurrant of Naples: Planting and harvesting period

The Royal Neapolitan Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Royal Neapolitan Blackcurrant is mid-July. The Royal Neapolitan Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Tradimel Blackcurrant: Planting and harvesting period

The Tradimel Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Tradimel Blackcurrant is in July. The Tradimel Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Boskoop Giant Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

The Boskoop Giant Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period of the Boskoop Giant Blackcurrant is from late June to early July. The Boskoop Giant Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Ben Alder Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

The Ben Alder blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Ben Alder blackcurrant bush is from July to August. The Ben Alder blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Ben Connan Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

The Ben Connan blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Ben Connan blackcurrant bush is from mid-July to mid-August. The Ben Connan blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Ben Lomond Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

Ben Lomond Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Ben Lomond Blackcurrant is from mid-July to mid-August. Ben Lomond Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Ben Nevis Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

Ben Nevis Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Ben Nevis Blackcurrant is from mid-July to mid-August (just before Ben Lomond). Ben Nevis Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant Ben Sarek: Planting and harvesting period

The Ben Sarek blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Ben Sarek blackcurrant bush is mid-June. The Ben Sarek blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Big Ben Blackcurrant: Planting and Harvesting Period

The Big Ben blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Big Ben blackcurrant bush is from early to late July. The Big Ben blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant Hedda: Planting and harvesting period

The Hedda blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Hedda blackcurrant bush is from early to mid-July. The Hedda blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant Silvergieter's Zwarte: Planting and harvesting period

Silvergieter's Blackcurrant is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Silvergieter's Blackcurrant is from late June to mid-July. Silvergieter's Blackcurrant is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant Titania: Planting and harvesting period

The Titania blackcurrant bush is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Titania blackcurrant bush is from late July to mid-August. The Titania blackcurrant bush is a non-remontant variety.

Blackcurrant Wellington XXX: Planting and harvesting period

Blackcurrant Wellington XXX is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Blackcurrant Wellington XXX is from mid-June to early July. Blackcurrant Wellington XXX is a non-remontant variety.

French Blackcurrant Market in 2025

In 2025, the blackcurrant market in France will be characterized by contrasting dynamics between conventional and organic sectors, with growing demand for local and sustainable products. Between diversification opportunities, agroecological innovations, and climate challenges, market gardeners can take advantage of this fruit, which has a wealth of diverse uses, while meeting consumer expectations for short supply chains and responsible practices.

Blackcurrant: Presentation and Uses

The blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) is a fruit shrub of the Grossulariaceae family, native to Europe and northern Asia. It produces blackcurrant, a small black berry with smooth skin and a characteristic, slightly acidic and astringent taste . These fruits, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, are valued for their nutritional and medicinal properties .

In France, the main commercial uses of blackcurrant are:

  • The production of liqueurs and crèmes de cassis, particularly for the production of kir
  • The making of jams, jellies, syrups and juices
  • Use in the food industry for dairy products, confectionery and infant formulas
  • Extraction of essential oils for perfumery
  • Herbal medicine, using leaves and fruits for their medicinal properties

Evolution of the Cassis Market

The French blackcurrant market has seen mixed developments in recent years. For the conventional market, cultivated areas have increased slightly, mainly in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, which represents 44% of national production . However, volumes fluctuated due to climatic hazards. Regarding organic production, despite a general downward trend in conversion areas (-28% in 2022), the organic blackcurrant sector held up better thanks to sustained demand. Certified organic areas increased by 8%, reflecting growing consumer interest in local organic products.

  • Conventional market: Slight increase in surface area, variable volumes
  • Organic market: Growth in certified areas (+8%), decrease in conversions
  • Burgundy-Franche-Comté: 44% of national production
  • Growing demand for local and organic products

State of the Market 2025

The blackcurrant market in France in 2025 presents distinct trends between conventional and organic. In the conventional sector, there is a stabilization of cultivated areas, with approximately 3,000 hectares dedicated to blackcurrant production . Production volumes fluctuate around 10,000 tonnes per year, influenced by climatic conditions. The organic market, meanwhile, is experiencing moderate but constant growth. Certified organic blackcurrant areas increased by 5% compared to the previous year, reaching nearly 500 hectares . This increase is in line with the general trend in the organic sector, which now represents 10.4% of the French agricultural area . The growing demand for local and organic products is stimulating the development of short supply chains, particularly direct sales, which are seeing a 5% increase in the number of points of sale.

Regions and Terroirs Cassis

The main blackcurrant-producing regions in France are the Loire Valley (40% of national production), Burgundy, the Upper Rhône Valley and the Oise . Burgundy-Franche-Comté, the historic birthplace of blackcurrant, remains a dominant region with 44% of national production .

Each region has specific characteristics that are favorable to blackcurrant cultivation:

  • Loire Valley: Temperate climate and well-drained clay-loam soils.
  • Burgundy: Continental climate with cold winters, favorable to the dormancy of the blackcurrant bush. Limestone or marl soils, moderately deep and well drained .
  • Upper Rhône Valley: Mediterranean to dry continental climate, with arid limestone soils .
  • Oise: Degraded oceanic climate, suitable for growing blackcurrants .

Blackcurrant adapts well to cool, continental climates, requiring harsh winters for dormancy and resisting spring frosts .

Blackcurrant Growing Techniques

The main varieties of blackcurrant grown in France are Noir de Bourgogne , Andega , Titania and Ben Lomond . Blackcurrant adapts to a variety of soils but prefers fresh, moist, well-drained clay loams with an optimum pH of 6.0 . It requires a cool climate with harsh winters for dormancy .

Irrigation is crucial, especially during flowering and until flower bud initiation after harvest, with a need of approximately 25 mm of water per week . The recommended planting density is approximately 350 plants per 1000 m² . Average yields vary between 4 to 6 tonnes/ha in conventional farming and 3 to 4 tonnes/ha in organic farming . The blackcurrant bush comes into production after 2 years and can remain productive for more than 20 years with good maintenance .

International Blackcurrant Trade

France is the third largest producer of blackcurrants in Europe, behind Poland and the United Kingdom . However, French production, estimated at around 7,000 tonnes per year, remains modest on a global scale . Poland dominates the market with a production of 131,000 tonnes, followed by Russia which produces around 420,000 tonnes of blackcurrants and gooseberries combined .

French blackcurrant imports come mainly from Poland, which exports around 34,200 tonnes per year, including 1,400 tonnes to France . These imports, often in frozen form, compete directly with national production, particularly for supplying processing industries . This foreign competition puts pressure on the prices and margins of French producers, encouraging the sector to diversify towards products with higher added value such as purees, compotes and juices, which now represent 50% of outlets .

Cassis Market Opportunities

The blackcurrant market in France offers interesting opportunities for producers, both in the conventional and organic sectors. For the conventional market, the diversification of industrial outlets represents significant growth potential. While crème de cassis remains a flagship product, the growing demand for blackcurrant purees, compotes and juices opens up new perspectives . These processed products now represent 50% of outlets, offering greater added value to producers.

In the organic sector, growth is driven by increased consumer demand for local and sustainable products. Aid for organic conversion and support from regional institutions facilitate the transition to this mode of production . The specific demand for organic blackcurrants for the food supplement and natural cosmetics industry also offers high value-added opportunities. Producers can thus benefit from a rapidly expanding niche market, meeting consumer expectations in terms of health and well-being.

Profitability and Financial Aid

Blackcurrant production presents significant differences between conventional and organic methods, both in terms of costs and profitability. For installation, the total cost, including soil preparation, planting and irrigation, is estimated at approximately €8,307 per hectare . Annual maintenance and harvesting vary considerably: from €1,911 to €11,006 per hectare, depending on whether the harvest is mechanical or manual .

In terms of profitability, organic blackcurrants offer interesting prospects. With a planting density of around 350 plants per 1000 m², we can expect a yield of 600 kg and a potential gain of €3,100 for this area . Compared to other crops such as sunflower, whose average annual gross margin excluding aid is between €341/ha and €484/ha, blackcurrant appears to offer better potential profitability.

To support the transition to organic farming and diversification, several aid schemes are available. Conversion aid (CAB) and the Fonds Avenir Bio are interesting options for producers . Additionally, regional programs such as Rural Development Programs (RDPs) can offer additional support, particularly for agroecological practices such as hedge planting . Recently, an additional €15 million was allocated to support organic farms that have suffered economic losses, bringing the total aid to €105 million for 2024 .

Sector Challenges and Risks

The blackcurrant market, both conventional and organic, faces significant challenges. Conventional production faces strong international competition, particularly from Poland, which is putting pressure on prices . Climatic hazards, such as heat waves and violent storms, can cause production losses ranging from 30 to 70% depending on the plot . Phytosanitary risks are also a concern, with a limited number of products approved for crop protection .

For the organic market, the constraints are mainly linked to high production costs, resulting from a cultivation method that is more demanding in terms of labor and input management . Strict organic regulations, although a guarantee of quality, involve regular checks and costly certifications . Additionally, competition is intensifying in the organic market, with supply increasing faster than demand, which can put downward pressure on prices .

Innovations and Market Perspectives

The blackcurrant industry in France is moving towards more sustainable and innovative practices. Research is underway to develop varieties that are more resistant to disease and adapted to climate change . Agroecology is gaining ground, with the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as nanotechnology to optimize crops . Producers are exploring new outlets, particularly in the cosmetics and nutraceutical industries, to diversify their income .

In the medium term, the blackcurrant market is expected to experience moderate but stable growth. Demand for local and organic products will continue to increase, favoring short supply chains . Innovation in processed products, such as purees and functional juices, is expected to boost consumption . However, climate challenges and international competition will remain key factors to monitor for the French sector .

Recommendations for Market Gardeners

Blackcurrant cultivation presents interesting opportunities for French market gardeners, but requires careful consideration before committing to it.

Benefits :

  • Growing demand for local and organic products
  • Diversification of outlets (food industry, cosmetics, nutraceuticals)
  • Good potential profitability, particularly in organic farming
  • Adaptability to different French climates and soils

Disadvantages:

  • Sensitivity to climatic hazards and phytosanitary risks
  • Strong international competition, especially from Poland
  • Significant initial investments (planting, irrigation)
  • Strict regulations and high costs for organic products

Recommendations:

  • Favor varieties adapted to the local terroir and resistant to diseases
  • Adopting agroecological practices to strengthen crop resilience
  • Diversify outlets by focusing on high added-value processing
  • Consider gradual organic conversion to benefit from transition aid
  • Integrate into local networks to optimize short-circuit marketing

A thorough analysis of the local market and available resources is essential before embarking on this promising but demanding crop.

Plants and Professional Advice

For market gardeners and professional producers looking for quality blackcurrant plants or advice on planting a plot, two specialist suppliers stand out on the French market:

Bairiverse ( https://plantspetitsfruits.com/ ) offers a wide range of small fruit plants, including blackcurrants, adapted to the needs of professionals . Their offer includes plants in mini-balls, pots and pots, available in organic and conventional versions . Bairiverse stands out for its commercial responsiveness and its fast delivery service within 15 days throughout France .

Econome à Légumes ( https://economealegumes.fr/ ) is a trader in plants and plant material offering competitive prices directly to producers . Their sales team is responsive and can be reached within 48 hours, providing personalized support for the choice of varieties and the establishment of crops . They also offer organic and conventional deliveries throughout France .

These two suppliers not only offer quality plants, but also technical support and advice tailored to blackcurrant plot planting projects, allowing producers to benefit from specialized expertise in the field of small fruits.

FAQ Small Fruits: all our planting tips

Find here all our technical itineraries and cultivation guides to optimize your berry yields

Maximize the production and quality of your crops with our technical itineraries

Whether you're a professional market gardener, nurseryman, or crop manager, accessing best practices and technical itineraries is essential to maximizing the yield and quality of your berry harvests. Through a selection of detailed articles and guides, you can benefit from advice on planting techniques, disease and pest management, as well as methods for preserving and optimizing production.

Explore each guide to get proven solutions, specific to the challenges of your operation, and benefit from the technical support of Bairiverse , your supplier of professional quality berry plants in France.

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