Redcurrants can be grown as bushes, vertical cordons or trained to grow flat and fanned out against a wall.
Dormant bareroot trees can be planted during winter to early spring and container grown plants at any time of the year.
Prepare the soil as you would growing blackcurrants by mixing in well-rotted manure or compost and dig a hole larger than the root ball to allow for new wood to grow. Plant at the same level and not deeper in the soil. Fill in the hole and press the soil firmly down around the base. At this time, you can cut back the main stems and shoots at the base of the main stem to encourage new growth.
Redcurrants can be pruned like gooseberry bushes as they fruit on spurs from the main stem, keeping the bush open and exposed by cutting to the first bud and removing any dead branches or branches that are growing inwards and downwards.
Water during dry spells until the plant is established. You can add mulch to retain moisture and supress weeds. Your plant may require the support of a stake.
The Redcurrant plant will form clusters of shiny redcurrants, that will be ready to harvest from June - August. You will be able to harvest 2-3 crops in the season. Pick the clusters rather than individual berries. When the berries go dull in colour, they are too mature, therefore pick them when they look glossy for a sweeter taste.
Redcurrants can be eaten fresh and raw or used for jams, desserts and drinks.