Gooseberry
Ribes uva-crispa, Ribes hirtellum
Gooseberry bushes are prolific producers of juicy, sweet-tart berries. There are European (Ribes uva-crispa) and American (Ribes hirtellum) gooseberry varieties. Green gooseberries are most common but the berries also come in shades of red, pink, yellow, and purple. Gooseberry bushes were banned in the US as they are a potential host plant for white pine blister rust, however they are now allowed in most (though not all) states. If you have white pine trees nearby you may want to select disease-resistant varieties.
How to Grow Gooseberry
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Nutrition
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Beneficial Critters
Growing from Seed
Gooseberries are not typically started from seed. They are typically started from bare root plants or transplants.
Planting Considerations
Plant gooseberries in fertile, well-draining soil. Ensure the top roots are 1" below the soil. In cooler climates it is best to transplant in spring as soon as the soil is workable. In warmer climates gooseberries can be transplanted in fall. Plant to the same depth as the soil in the nursery pot (or in the case of bare root plants plant to the soil line on the trunk). Soak bare root plants for 1-2 hours before transplanting.
Feeding
Fertilize and/or apply composted manure around the plant under the branches annually in the spring. Gooseberries do not need much fertilizer; over-fertilizing can cause problems.
Harvesting
Some people prefer to harvest slightly immature berries for preserves, others prefer to allow the berries to fully ripen. Gooseberries can be harvested as individual berries, or can be knocked off the bush onto a blanket placed under the bush. Use sturdy gloves when picking gooseberries as the plants have thorns (some varieties less so than others). Mature berries will be 1/2" to 1" (1-2.5 cm) wide depending on the variety and will have a slight give to them when squeezed.
Storage
Gooseberries can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen in a single layer on a baking tray then transferred to a freezer-safe bag and stored in the freezer for up to several months. Gooseberries are often made into jam and preserves.
Pruning
Remember to use gloves when pruning! Gooseberry bushes are best pruned in late winter to early spring while the plant is still dormant. Gooseberries bear fruit on 2-3 year old wood. Prune dead and diseased branches down to the ground. Remove crossing branches that could rub together and cause wounds. Aim for 9-12 stems with a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-year old wood, but do not cut back more than 1/3 of the plant at a time.
