How to Grow Jostaberry
Bush Berry
Jostaberry is a vigorous, usually thornless cross between blackcurrant and gooseberry, bearing dark berries with a distinctive sharp-sweet flavour. It is an unfussy choice for an allotment or generous garden, producing substantial crops from an upright, spreading bush and needing only straightforward annual pruning.
Planting
Plant bare-root jostaberries from November to March and container-grown plants when weather and soil permit. Space bushes 1.8 to 2 m apart because mature plants become large. Plant slightly deeper than the nursery level to encourage basal growth, firm well, water and mulch with garden compost. A young plant may need a cane in a windy garden; established bushes are generally self-supporting. Keep a clear, weed-free circle around the base while it establishes.
Care & pruning
Treat jostaberry broadly like blackcurrant. In winter, remove a proportion of the oldest stems at ground level, retaining a balanced mixture of vigorous younger shoots. Cut out weak, broken and congested growth to keep the centre airy. Mulch each spring with garden compost and apply an organic fertiliser if growth lacks vigour. Water during prolonged dry spells and when fruit is swelling. Its easy-going nature means big bud mite and sawfly are usually less concerning than on its parents.
Harvest
Pick from mid-July to August when berries are deep purple-black, plump and detach readily. They seldom ripen all at once, so pick several times. Handle fruit gently and use it promptly or freeze clean, dry berries for later kitchen use.
Common problems
Jostaberry is generally robust, but birds can take ripe fruit, so net before berries darken. Aphids, leaf spot and mildew may occasionally appear, particularly on crowded or drought-stressed plants. Prune for airflow, water at soil level and remove fallen leaves. Watch for damaged stems and cut them out cleanly in winter. Avoid planting where currant disease problems have been persistent.
Growing Jostaberry: frequently asked questions
How do I grow jostaberry in the UK?
Plant bare-root jostaberries from November to March and container-grown plants when weather and soil permit.
How do I care for jostaberry?
Treat jostaberry broadly like blackcurrant.
When is jostaberry ready to harvest?
Pick from mid-July to August when berries are deep purple-black, plump and detach readily.
General guidance for UK gardens and allotments. Timing varies by region and season; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.