Ribes nigrum 'Ben Alder'

Spring - late · Outdoors

Feed with slow release fertiliser

Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)

This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water to keep the soil moist

For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.

Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.

Summer · Planting

Protect fruit from birds

If the plant is not grown in a fruit cage, protect it with a net to prevent birds eating the fruit.

Winter - late · Planting

Prune soft fruit bushes

Prune lightly in first 3 years. After that prune to encourage new stems from the base. Remove one-quarter of the oldest, plus weak or rubbing stems and any touching the ground. Cut at base or just above a young strong shoot lower down the branch.

Applies to currants, gooseberries, blueberries and honeyberries

Winter - late · Planting

Prune cordon or fan-trained soft fruit

Reduce side shoots which branch off the main vertical stem by cutting above the second bud. This will encourage the "spurs" to fan out, maintaining the plant's shape.

Applies to currants, gooseberries and blueberries

Outdoor planting · Planting

Add root growth stimulant to the planting hole

Mycorrhizal fungi helps roots establish quickly, so they absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. It comes as a powder, granule or gel. Add to the planting hole or container, and to the plant's rootball before planting in the hole. For "bareroot" plants use a gel.