When to plant Black currant?

Black currants thrive in full sun or partial shade, though you'll get heavier crops in a sunnier spot. They prefer moisture-retentive loam or clay soil with plenty of organic matter worked in. Choose a sheltered position if possible, as strong winds can damage the flowers and reduce fruit set. Plant bare-root bushes between March and May, though earlier in that window is better if the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged. Container-grown plants can go in any time during the planting window, but avoid very dry spells. Before planting, dig a hole roughly twice the width of the root ball and fork over the base. Mix a generous amount of well-rotted compost or manure into the soil you've removed. Set the plant about 5 cm deeper than it was growing in the nursery or pot—you should be able to see the old soil mark on the stem. This deeper planting encourages new shoots to emerge from below ground, which is exactly what you want for a productive, long-lived bush. Space plants 120 cm apart if you're planting more than one; this gives them room to spread without crowding. Backfill with the improved soil, firm gently with your heel, and water thoroughly even if the soil is already damp. Apply a 5–7 cm layer of well-rotted compost, leaf mould, or bark mulch around the base, keeping it a few centimetres clear of the stems. Immediately after planting, cut all shoots back to one or two buds above ground level—this looks drastic but establishes a strong framework and encourages vigorous new growth in the first season.