Blackcurrant Big Ben is a superb blackcurrant with huge fruits – much larger than the fruits of most other blackcurrants. Bred especially for eating fresh the large fruits are much sweeter than other varieties and once mature a plant can produce 4.5kg (10lb) of fruit! Big Ben is resistant to both powdery mildew and leaf spot. Harvest June-July.
Growing Information
Blackcurrants prefer a position in full sun but will tolerate semi shade. Shelter from cold winds and late spring frosts as these conditions may damage the flowers, and reduce the yield of fruit later in the year. Grow blackcurrants in rich, moist, well drained soil. Incorporate plenty of well rotted manure into the ground prior to planting. Plant blackcurrant bushes between late autumn and spring, at a distance of 1.5m (5′) apart and a depth of 5cm (2″) lower than the soil mark on the stem. Planting blackcurrants slightly deep will encourage the production of extra stems from below ground level.
