Gooseberries are a member of the currant family. This family of plants tolerates modest shade well. This means you can plant them in less than ideal sun conditions compared to other fruit trees and berries. Gooseberries grow thorny bushes that continue to sprawl over time. If you have about 10 years of patience a hedge of gooseberry bushes is basically impenetrable to deer, rabbits and raccoons.
In the 1950’s it was found that gooseberries and some types of currants could harbor pine blister rust disease which has the ability to decimate pine forests. The federal government quickly banned the sale and cultivation of gooseberry plants. Decades later improved research revealed that only a handful of pine species were susceptible to the disease and regulations have since been eased up. It is still wise to check with your county agricultural extension office before you order them. Most reputable providers won’t sell gooseberries to states which still uphold the ban.
There are many different types of currants and gooseberries. Each one has its own unique flavor but all are tart and high in vitamin C.
Growing zone: 3 to 7
Time to maturity: 1 to 3 years
Pollination needs: While some are self-pollinating all do better when they are cross pollinated.
Pruning/Thinning: After plants have been established for three years you should only prune away dead branches to allow for better ventilation.
Harvest time: Varies by type, most produce from late June through late July.
Currants tend to grow between 3 to 6 feet high and they tend to grow as wide as they are tall. Since they have shallow roots they should not be planted in an area that is directly exposed to straight line storm winds. They should also be mulched each year with a thick layer of compost to keep the shallow roots moist in drought conditions. Bushes should be planted 6 feet apart to allow proper spacing.
Gooseberries can vary a little bit by type, but in general they grow 7 to 9 feet high and as much as 12 feet wide. They are also shallow rooted and require thick mulching. However, their roots are stronger and more diverse than currants and can handle exposed storm winds. If you are growing the plants for maximum production they should be spaced 6 to 8 feet apart. If you are planning to use them as a defensive hedge, then planting 3 feet apart might limit your production but it will give you an impenetrable wall of thorns in 5 to 7 years.
Long term storage options: All gooseberries and currants are candidates for jams and jellies. While they are tart when eating out of hand, the sour flavor is not over powering. When gooseberries are made into wine, with the right sugar balance they make a crisp libation that is refreshing served ice cold, in a spritzer or used in a shandy.