Blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' Ribes nigrum 'Ben Lomond' (PBR) (B)

Water

The Blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly on a weekly basis, ensuring water reaches the roots. During the growing season, increase to twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time depending on rainfall and soil conditions. In hot and dry periods, the frequency may need to be increased. Over the winter months, reduce watering as the plant is dormant and will require less moisture. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Light

Blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' thrives in full sun to part shade. The ideal spot for this plant is one where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, though some afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can impact fruit production and overall health of the plant.

Temperature

The Blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' is cold hardy and performs well in a range of temperatures but the ideal growing temperature is between 60°F and 75°F. It can withstand winter temperatures down to about -10°F. During the growing season, ensure that the temperature does not consistently exceed 85°F, as extreme heat may stress the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' is crucial for maintaining plant health, encouraging new growth and improving fruit yield. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins by removing any dead or diseased wood, and thinning out crowded areas to allow light and air to penetrate. Annual pruning should also include the removal of some of the oldest branches to promote the growth of younger fruit-bearing shoots.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Black currants, like 'Ben Lomond', thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil, well-rotted manure, and peat with perlite is suitable for retaining moisture while providing good drainage.

Repotting

Black currants, such as 'Ben Lomond', do not need frequent repotting and can remain in the same spot for several years, as long as the soil is kept fertile with annual mulching or composting.

Humidity & Misting

Black currants like 'Ben Lomond' prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate the range of outdoor humidity conditions typically found in their growing regions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place 'Ben Lomond' in cool, bright location; ensure large pot for root growth.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from wind, mulch yearly.

• Hardiness zone

  5-7 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' starts with seed germination, typically occurring in controlled environments for cultivars. Once germinated, the seedling grows into a young plant with leaves, and as it matures, it develops woody stems and a root system. This plant is deciduous, undergoing a phase of leaf development in spring followed by flowering; the small, greenish-white flowers bloom in mid-spring. After pollination, the flowers develop into clusters of glossy black berries by mid-summer, which are the fruiting stage of the plant. Following fruiting, the plant enters a dormant period in late autumn and winter, losing its leaves until the next growth cycle begins in the spring. Throughout its life, 'Ben Lomond' requires pruning, which is essential for maintaining plant health and encouraging fruit production in subsequent years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the blackcurrant 'Ben Lomond' is through hardwood cuttings. This technique is typically carried out in late autumn to early winter, after the plant has shed its leaves and is in dormancy. To propagate, healthy, straight shoots from the current year's growth are selected. These are cut into lengths of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), making sure each cutting has several buds. The bottom cut is made just below a bud, and the top cut just above a bud to prevent water from accumulating and causing rot. The cuttings are then inserted into a prepared bed or pots filled with a mixture of soil and compost, leaving only a couple of buds above the surface. The bed should be well-drained, and the cuttings kept moist until they root and can be transplanted the following autumn.