What should I do with my red currant bushes?
Question:I have 3 red currant bushes and after picking berries for the last hour, I have realized that the berries aren't as large and healthy as they used to be. The vines are much smaller and I guess it can only be blamed on the age of the bushes. I didn't plant these bushes so I don't know how old they are, but I have been picking and eating them for 5 years or more, easily! I have marked a few branches where the vines are HUGE and the berries are extremely large. How do I procceed in taking cuttings from the bushes and replanting it? I know nothing about it, help! Should I take cuttings from the healthiest, leafiest branches??
Answers:
No, don't cut off the most prolific branches!!
You should prune during the dormant season. For red and white currents, cut back (off) stems older than 3 years to the ground. For black currents, remove stems older than 2 years.
I would pick the potential "cuts" now and spray the stems near the ground with white spray paint. Then, in a couple of months, when you are ready to cut, you will know "which is which"!!
Good Luck!!
Pruning them will increase your fruit yield and get rid of non-productive woody branches. There are two ways to propagate your plants. See the link for more information, under the sections, "Propagation" and "Prune Every Year."
I also have red currant bushes, but I think my dog and/or local wildlife enjoys their fruits before I even get a chance to pick them.
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