Troubleshooting
Black Redcurrant problems — and how to fix them
Black Redcurrant (Ribes nigrum 'Ben Lomond') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Big bud mite
Mites swell dormant buds to round 'big buds' and can spread reversion virus. Pick off and destroy affected buds in winter; replace badly infected, virus-affected bushes with certified stock.
Blackcurrant reversion virus
Spread by big bud mite; leaves become abnormal and yields collapse with no cure. Buy certified disease-free plants and remove affected bushes promptly.
American gooseberry mildew
White powdery growth on shoots and fruit. 'Ben Lomond' has some resistance; improve airflow with open-centre pruning and avoid excess nitrogen-driven soft growth.
Birds stripping ripe fruit
Birds quickly clear ripe currants. Net the bush as berries colour, or grow within a fruit cage.
Prevent black redcurrant problems before they start
Most black redcurrant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for black redcurrant in general rather than its problems? Read the full black redcurrant care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Black Redcurrant problems — FAQ
Why is my black redcurrant big bud mite?
Mites swell dormant buds to round 'big buds' and can spread reversion virus. Pick off and destroy affected buds in winter; replace badly infected, virus-affected bushes with certified stock.
Why is my black redcurrant blackcurrant reversion virus?
Spread by big bud mite; leaves become abnormal and yields collapse with no cure. Buy certified disease-free plants and remove affected bushes promptly.
Why is my black redcurrant american gooseberry mildew?
White powdery growth on shoots and fruit. 'Ben Lomond' has some resistance; improve airflow with open-centre pruning and avoid excess nitrogen-driven soft growth.
Why is my black redcurrant birds stripping ripe fruit?
Birds quickly clear ripe currants. Net the bush as berries colour, or grow within a fruit cage.