Apply a general-purpose granular fertiliser, such as blood, fish, and bone, in late winter. Follow this with a mulch of well-rotted manure or compost to suppress weeds and improve soil structure. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, as these encourage leafy growth at the expense of fruit.

Redcurrants prefer a sunny, sheltered spot to ripen their fruit and maximise yield. However, they are quite tolerant and will still crop reasonably well in partial shade. Avoid frost pockets, as late frosts can damage the early flowers.

Birds are very fond of redcurrants and can strip a bush of fruit quickly. The most effective protection is to cover the bush with netting or build a fruit cage before the berries start to colour. Ensure the netting is taut so birds do not get trapped in the mesh.

Redcurrants typically ripen in mid-summer, usually from July to August, depending on the variety and weather. The fruit is ready when it is fully coloured and firm, usually harvested as whole strigs (bunches) rather than individual berries. Pick them on a dry day to ensure they store better.

Newly planted bushes require regular watering during their first year to establish a strong root system. In dry spells, mature plants should be watered at the base, especially while the fruit is swelling. Mulching with compost helps the soil retain moisture during hot summer months.

Pruning is best done in winter when the bush is dormant to maintain an open goblet shape. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches and shorten main shoots by about a quarter to encourage strong growth. Cordons require summer pruning in June or July to restrict growth and encourage fruiting spurs.

These bushes thrive in soil that is moisture-retentive but free-draining, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. They do not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so heavy clay soils may need improving with grit and organic matter. Mulching annually helps retain necessary moisture during the growing season.

Plant bare-root redcurrant bushes between late autumn and early spring when the plant is dormant. Container-grown bushes can be planted at any time of year, provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Ensure the soil is well-prepared with organic matter before planting.