The outside temperature just hit 32 degrees Celsius and summer has officially arrived at the farm. Spring has been very welcomed this year; cool with lots of moisture. The black currant bushes have responded well and are looking fruit laden. The good news is there should be plenty of product available after July 20. Harvest will likely begin between July 9-12 bearing any natural disaster. Berry size seems very large and we will be adding a new variety this year…
This year’s crop was dismal at best. We harvested all plants and only managed a little under 400 pounds of black currant fruit. As I was driving the tractor during harvest I kept reviewing this year to pinpoint our low production. Weather wise we had an unbelievable season with perfectly timed rains, cool nights and no pest issues. The only reason I can figure is the fact that my producing bushes are over 20 years old and have run their…
I’ve just finished mowing the currants for the last time before harvest. This May and June have been extremely hot and dry and I have been irrigating the currants for most of June. The crop looks promising but I do need to double or triple production in the next couple of years. My new plantings are struggling with both the heat and dryness. Sandy loam soil is great for an early start but lacks in moisture holding potential. I think…