How to grow... Jostaberries
Rocket Growing Guides
The Jostaberry plant produces fruit that looks very similar to blackcurrant but twice the size and with a unique flavour. The Jostaberry is a thornless bush (makes it easier to pick!) that is heavy yielding and mildew resistant.
- Jostaberry Growing Guide
How to Plant Jostaberries
- These need fertile, neutral soil (a pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal).
- They will tolerate a little light shade.
- Plant 1.5m in deep, well-draining soil with plenty of organic compost added in and planted in beds, and borders or in large pots/containers.
How to Grow Jostaberries
- Keep the soil moist during the first year. In later years, water well on a weekly basis during prolonged dry spells.
- Cut all stems back to 30cm above ground at planting time. No further pruning will be necessary for the next 3-5 years while growth is vigorous.
- In later years, remove a fifth of your bush in winter, cutting out from its base the oldest and lowest wood.
- Apply a mulch every winter if possible.
How to Harvest Jostaberries
- Fruits will ripen for harvesting in the summer from July through to August.