Redcurrant Jonkheer van Tets Standard

How to take care of Redcurrant Jonkheer van Tets Standard

Prepare the planting site well before planting by digging a hole wide enough to spread the roots out. Choose a sheltered position in the sun or partial shade. It is better to place a bamboo in and tie the cane to wires or fence. Any reasonable garden soil will do but it will not tolerate poor drainage. Pull out any unwanted suckers before planting and plant just below the soil surface. Gentle press the soil back into place. Cut the stems to about 4" (10cm) above the surface except the main stem, which you can tie to the cane. Apply a general fertiliser in March, water in and apply some mulch of well-rotted manure. Prune between November-March and after 2years cut out weak and diseased branches. Always give winter protection against frost by applying some mulch and covering it at nighttime and removing it during the day. Water regularly and thoroughly during dry weather- keep the water off the stems. They require feeding in spring and summer. When the fruits start to appear, you will need to protect them from the birds, draping nets over it can do this. The fruit is ready to be picked when it's fully coloured and shiny. A dull colour means you have waited too long. Do not pick them singly; you will damage the other fruits. They make excellent jam and jelly and can also be used in pies and pudding and wine making.