Culture

Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers rich organic soils. Plant in a location protected from strong winter winds and frost pockets. Appreciates a summer mulch to help retain soil moisture. Annual prunings will maximize fruit yields. Self-fertile, but better cross-pollination may be achieved if different cultivars can be found and planted together.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Jostaberry is a cross between black current (R. nigrum) and R. uva-crispa. A deciduous shrub that typically grows 3-4' tall (less frequently to 6'). Growth habit more closely resembles the black current parent, but larger, reddish purple fruit (1/2 to 3/4" diameter) more closely resembles the gooseberry parent in both size and taste.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. More pest free than its parents. Although jostaberry is reportedly not a host for white pine blister rust, it is still illegal to plant this hybrid in certain areas of the U.S. (particularly in the East and Northwest) where bans on Ribes plants are in effect for the avowed purpose of protecting large stands of white pines from the disease. Missouri has no restrictions on Ribes plants. Crops usually need to be protected from birds with netting or other enclosures.

Garden Uses

Grow in a protected location in the fruit or vegetable garden. Can be grown as a hedge.