Growing Currants in Australia: The Complete Guide
Currants is an easy berry to grow, needing full–part sun with regular watering.
If you're thinking about adding currants to the homestead, here's the real detail behind our printable guide — what it actually takes to grow it well in an Australian garden.
A cool-climate favourite
Currants generally prefer cooler conditions than many other berries and appreciate some afternoon shade in warmer parts of Australia.
How to Plant Currants
Method — plant bare-root or potted bushes slightly deeper than they sat in the pot. Soil — rich, well-drained, high organic matter. Timing — plant in winter while dormant.
Ongoing Care
Keep these points in mind:
- Water regularly, especially through fruit development.
- Mulch to retain moisture.
- Prune in winter to an open shape, removing old unproductive wood.
- Net as fruit ripens — birds take these readily.
Common Problems
Worth paying attention to:
- Currant blister aphid — puckered leaves; largely cosmetic, tolerate or hose off.
- Birds — net thoroughly.
- Powdery mildew — improve airflow through pruning.
- Poor fruiting in hot climates — provide afternoon shade in warmer zones.
When and How to Harvest
Signs — full colour, whole trusses ripen together. Method — pick whole strings (strigs) rather than individual berries. Curing — none needed. Storage — fridge, about a week; freezes well.
For the condensed, printable version of everything above, head to the main currants guide page.