Pruning blackcurrant bushes: when and how to do it successfully

When to prune a blackcurrant bush and why?

• When to prune?

Pruning of blackcurrant bushes (like that of redcurrant bushes) is done in winter, outside of frost periods, ideally around February.

• Why prune blackcurrant bushes?

Pruning the blackcurrant bush is important. Whether for blackcurrants or redcurrants, the most fruitful branches are those that are 2 to 3 years old. It is therefore necessary to remove the oldest branches and encourage the growth of new shoots. Additionally, a well-aerated bush will reduce the risk of diseases and make harvesting easier.

On the blackcurrant bush as well as on the redcurrant bush, it is the 2 to 3-year-old shoots that produce the most fruit.

Pruning blackcurrant in a few steps

• Use a pruning shear or a branch cutter that is clean and disinfected.
• In the year of planting, cut back the branches to 2 or 3 buds to encourage the formation of a bush with about a dozen branches.
• From the 3rd year of planting, prune every year by cutting 3 to 4 of the oldest shoots (5 or 6 years) down to the ground. These shoots are easily recognised as they are darker, almost black. Remove dead branches or those that cross each other at the base. Clear the centre of the clump to allow air and light to circulate while maintaining a harmonious habit. The blackcurrant bush should retain about a dozen branches.