Jostaberry

Plant family

Gooseberry family (Grossulariaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Dry

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Low

Seeding distance

200 cm

Row spacing

200 cm

Seeding depth

25 cm

Instructions

Description

The jostaberry is a cross between the currant and the gooseberry, which is where its name comes from. From a botanical point of view, it belongs to the gooseberry family (Grossulariaceae). The growth is thornless, fast and spreading and the shrub can grow up to 2 m wide and high. The black-purple fruits are intermediate in size between currants and gooseberries, are sweeter than currants, but have a slight acidity with currant flavor. It is a self-pollinator. Hardy, diseases and pests rarely occur. Also called bastard currant, rigatze, yokeberry or joglberry.

Growing tips

Thrives very well in heavy garden soil in partial shade. A sheltered location can provide better protection from late frosts when fruit set early. The purchased shrub is placed in the ground in the fall as deep as it sat in the pot. The distance in the row should ideally be between 2.5-3 m. Tying the shrub can protect it from wind damage. A mulch can keep moisture in the soil better and protect against weeds. Can be fertilized a little in the spring and fall. Is not pruned annually, but only thinned out occasionally. If pruned, best after harvest. Propagated by cuttings or cuttings. Needs watering only on hot days. Avoid waterlogging.