Gooseberry Hinnonmaki Green: Everything You Need to Know

Ribes uva-crispa

Gooseberry Hinnonmaki Green is a fantastic fruit-bearing shrub that thrives in gardens of all sizes. With its high yield and sweet, aromatic flavour, this variety is a favourite among gardeners. It is a mid-season variety known for its disease resistance and adaptability. Whether you are looking to enjoy fresh fruit, make jams, or enhance your desserts, this gooseberry bush will not disappoint. This guide will help you understand how to plant, care for, and harvest Gooseberry Hinnonmaki Green successfully.

Choosing the Right Location

Gooseberry Hinnonmaki Green thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. A sunny position helps the fruit develop its full sweetness. If your garden is prone to waterlogging, improve drainage by adding organic compost.

Preparing the Soil

• Ensure the soil is fertile and well-drained.
• Mix in well-rotted manure before planting.
• Apply a mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Planting the Bush

• Dig a hole wide enough to accommodate the roots.
• Place the plant at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot.
• Water well after planting to help it establish.

Watering and Feeding

• Water well during dry weather to encourage fruiting.
• Apply well-rotted manure in early spring.
• Use a balanced fertiliser to support healthy growth.

Pruning for a Healthy Bush

• In winter, prune back old wood to encourage new growth.
• Remove any unwanted suckers from the base.
• Shorten new shoots by 50-75% to form fruiting spurs.

Common Pests

• Gooseberry sawfly: Check the undersides of leaves and remove larvae.
• Aphids: Spray with soapy water to deter them.

Disease Resistance

Hinnonmaki Green is resistant to Powdery Mildew, making it a low-maintenance variety. Ensure good air circulation to further reduce disease risk.

When to Harvest

• Fruits ripen from July onwards.
• Pick when fully ripe for fresh eating or slightly under-ripe for cooking.

How to Harvest

• Gently twist the berries from the bush.
• Use gloves if the bush has thorns.

• Fresh Eating: The sweet, aromatic flavour makes them perfect to eat straight from the bush.
• Baking: Ideal for pies, tarts, and crumbles.
• Preserves: Excellent for making jams and jellies.

Key Points to Remember:

• Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun
• Resistant to Powdery Mildew, making it easy to maintain
• Produces large, sweet, aromatic green fruits
• Requires winter pruning to encourage fruiting
• Harvest from July onwards for fresh eating and cooking

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of Gooseberry Hinnonmaki Green in your garden!

To see the RHS article please click here

For more information on Fruit for your garden please click here

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry?

A: The Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa) is a self-fertile variety that produces sweet, aromatic green gooseberries. It’s an excellent choice for gardeners who want a reliable and tasty fruit crop.

Q: How tall does the Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry bush grow?

A: This compact gooseberry bush typically reaches around 1.5m in height. It’s ideal for smaller gardens, producing plenty of fruit without taking up too much space.

Q: Is the Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry hardy?

A: Yes! This variety is fully hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. It thrives in a range of growing conditions, making it a great option for UK gardens.

Q: How do I care for my Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry bush?

A: Plant it in well-drained soil and add well-rotted compost or manure around the base for extra nutrients. Water regularly during dry spells to keep the plant healthy and productive.

Q: When is the best time to plant a Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry bush?

A: The best time to plant is during the dormant season, in late autumn or early spring. This allows the roots to establish before new growth begins.

Q: Where can I buy a Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry bush?

A: Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry plants are available at garden centres and online retailers. Be sure to choose a reputable supplier for the healthiest plants.

Q: What type of soil does the Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry prefer?

A: It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. Avoid waterlogged areas, as excess moisture can lead to root rot and other problems.

Q: Do I need more than one Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberry bush to get fruit?

A: No, this variety is self-fertile, meaning it will produce fruit without needing a second plant. However, planting multiple bushes can increase yields.

Q: What can I use Hinnonmäki Green Gooseberries for?

A: These gooseberries are incredibly versatile! Enjoy them fresh, or use them in jams, puddings, sauces, and desserts. Their sweet, aromatic flavour makes them perfect for both cooking and eating straight from the bush.