Natura Classica

1. When to plant berries?

Planting can be done in the autumn from the falling of leaves until the start of vegetation in the spring. In principle, autumn planting is far better due to early growth of this fruit.

2. Where to plant?

Currant best breeds in the deep, cool, well- drained, sandy loam that retains moisture well, whose organic matter content is at least 3.0% , and whose acidity (pH) ranges between 5.5-7.0. Currant will bear better a heavier soil compared to many other kinds of fruit, but avoid areas where excessive moisture is reserved in the land. Currants grow best when exposed to full sunlight and good ventilation, provided with a sufficient amount of moisture, and with protection against damage that can cause wind and frost. High temperatures during the summer months (above 30⁰C) for long periods of time can cause damage to the leaves of currants. At locations where these temperatures are common, huts can be set up. While low temperatures in winter rarely cause damage to the berries, variable temperature during the winter and early spring resulted in damage to the canes. It is essential that currant has a period of winter dormancy in order to have normal growth and production. By the beginning of full dormancy in late fall, it is necessary to carry out the plant from 800-1600 hours at temperatures between 0 and 7.2⁰C. Therefore, you should choose the sites where these conditions can be fulfilled with certainty.

3. How to plant?

The preparation of the land should start a year or two before planting in order to increase the content of organic matter in soil, harmonize soil acidity (if necessary), eliminate problems with weeds and provide adequate garden beds. Perennial weeds should be suppressed before planting. They can be controlled by intensive agricultural practices, although chemical agents give much better results. It is necessary to dig a hole measuring 40x40cm for planting. During spring planting, watering with 3 to 5l of water per seedling is important.

4. How to prune?

Pruning Berries is a specific and very important measure. Yield depends on it, fruit quality and longevity of the plantation. The main goal of pruning is a proper branch arrangement ,of certain age, which provides good ventilation and insolation of the entire bush. It is not desirable to eliminate the middle of the bush because it shortens the birth wood and reduces the yield. The bush should not have branches and trees older than four years. Cutting is done in a period of deep sleep, by the end of March. It must not be delayed, because the Currant buds develop quite early, are very swollen and easily crumbl.