Blackcurrant Ben Connan – A Guide to Growing Juicy, High-Yielding Berries

Ribes nigrum

Blackcurrant Ben Connan is a compact, high-yielding variety that produces glossy black fruits with a superb rich flavour. This easy-to-grow shrub is perfect for gardeners looking to enjoy a reliable and abundant harvest of blackcurrants without requiring excessive maintenance. Whether you’re growing in the garden or containers, this guide will help you establish, care for, and maximise your Ben Connan blackcurrant crop.

Ben Connan blackcurrant is an outstanding early-season variety, developed by the Scottish Crop Research Institute. It is known for its compact habit, excellent mildew resistance, and heavy cropping potential. This variety is particularly suitable for smaller gardens due to its small bush variety status, making it an ideal choice for growers who need a reliable, space-efficient fruiting shrub. With yields reaching over 3.5kg (7lb) per bush, Ben Connan blackcurrant is highly productive and offers high-quality fruits that are rich in flavour.

Choosing the Right Location

Blackcurrant bushes thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun, though they can tolerate semi-shade. Select a sheltered spot that protects the plant from cold winds and frost damage, which can impact fruiting. Gardeners growing in the garden or containers should ensure the plants have access to nutrient-rich soil with good drainage.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, incorporate well-rotted manure or compost into the soil to enhance fertility and moisture retention. Blackcurrants prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. If the soil is too alkaline, adding organic matter like peat-free compost can help balance pH levels.

Planting Blackcurrant Ben Connan

For bare-root plants, plant them in late autumn or early spring while the plant is dormant. If growing in pots, ensure the container is at least 30cm (12 inches) in diameter to allow room for root growth.

• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and 5cm (2 inches) deeper than it was previously planted.
• Place the plant at a depth of 5cm (2 inches) to encourage multiple stems to develop.
• Space plants 1.5m (5ft) apart to allow air circulation.
• Water well after planting and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Watering and Mulching

Blackcurrant plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods and fruiting. Apply mulch annually using well-rotted manure or compost to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Feeding

Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote strong growth and heavy cropping. Supplementing with nitrogen in mid-summer can improve yields.

Pruning Blackcurrant Ben Connan

Prune annually during the dormant period (late autumn to winter). Remove old stems to encourage new growth and improve air circulation. Cut back branches to ground level, leaving younger stems for fruiting. Regular pruning ensures high yields and maintains a compact growth habit.

Common Issues

Ben Connan blackcurrant is resistant to mildew but can be affected by leaf curling midge and gall mite. Checking for signs of pests and applying organic treatments can help maintain plant health.

Preventative Measures

Encourage beneficial insects and birds to help control pests. Keep the area around the plant free from debris, and apply a mulch layer to prevent soil-borne diseases.

Ben Connan blackcurrants are ready to harvest from mid-summer onwards. The large fruits, known for their glossy black appearance and rich flavour, can be eaten straight from the bush or used for culinary purposes, including jams, jellies, and cordials.

• Pick fruit in dry weather for best quality.

• Store in a cool, dry place or freeze for long-term use.

• Expect a consistent yield from the second season onwards, with mature plants producing over 3.5kg (7lb) per bush.

Key Points to Remember:

• Choose a sunny, sheltered location for best fruit production
• Improve soil fertility with manure or compost before planting
• Water regularly and mulch annually to retain moisture
• Prune during the dormant season to encourage new growth
• Harvest in mid-summer, ensuring fruits are fully ripe for the best flavour

Blackcurrant Ben Connan is a fantastic addition to any garden, offering high yields, excellent flavour, and a compact habit that suits even smaller spaces. By following these care tips, you’ll enjoy a productive and rewarding fruit harvest year after year.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are Ben Connan blackcurrant bushes?

A: Ben Connan blackcurrant bushes (Ribes nigrum) are a popular variety known for their high-quality fruits and excellent mildew resistance. They’re easy to grow and perfect for home gardens!

Q: How do I care for my Ribes nigrum Ben Connan plants?

A: To keep your Ribes nigrum Ben Connan in top condition, plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. They thrive in various soil types, but adding well-rotted organic matter can significantly boost their growth!

Q: Where can I buy blackcurrant bushes like Ben Connan?

A: You can find Ben Connan blackcurrant bushes at local garden centres or online nurseries. Just ensure you buy from a reputable seller to get the best quality plants!

Q: What makes the Ben Connan variety special?

A: The Ben Connan variety is prized for its exceptionally large berries and heavy cropping. It has also been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM) for its outstanding performance!

Q: Are blackcurrants easy to pick?

A: Absolutely! Blackcurrants from Ribes nigrum are easy to pick, making harvesting simple and enjoyable. You’ll love collecting these delicious berries straight from your garden!

Q: Can blackcurrants be grown in small gardens?

A: Yes! Blackcurrants can be grown in smaller spaces, especially compact varieties like Ben Connan. Just ensure they get enough sunlight and are planted in well-drained soil, and they’ll flourish!

Q: What’s the best way to establish Ribes nigrum once planted?

A: To establish your Ribes nigrum plants, water them regularly and mulch the soil to retain moisture and keep the roots cool. This will give your plants the best start!

Q: How often should I feed my blackcurrant plants?

A: Feed your blackcurrant plants in early spring with a balanced fertiliser to encourage strong growth and a bountiful harvest of delicious berries!

Q: What pests or diseases should I watch out for with blackcurrant bushes?

A: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Fortunately, the Ben Connan variety has excellent mildew resistance, so you won’t have to worry too much about fungal diseases!