The Obilnaya currant is a popular and sought-after variety, prized by gardeners for its excellent taste, good yield, and robust immunity. Its medium-sized black berries with a pleasantly sweet flavor and rich aroma make it an excellent choice for both personal consumption and winter preservation. Proper care is key.
Characteristics of the variety
The main advantage of this variety is its high winter hardiness. The bushes can withstand temperatures down to -35°C, allowing them to be grown successfully in a variety of climates. Fruiting occurs almost simultaneously in mid-July.
This variety is renowned for its high productivity, ensuring a consistent harvest even under adverse weather conditions. A single bush yields an average of 2.5 to 4 kg of berries when all cultivation recommendations are followed. In fertile soils and with proper care, this figure can reach 5.5 kg.
Appearance of the bush, berries, taste
Obilnaya is a popular variety of black currant with a versatile use. The plant is characterized by a semi-spreading habit and can reach up to 2 m in diameter and a height of approximately 1.2 m. Medium-sized green leaves are distributed quite densely throughout the plant.
The fruits are medium-sized and dark in color. The skin is thick, making them resistant to damage during long-distance transportation. The berries have a sweet taste and a pleasant aroma.
Care and cultivation
Currants are an easy-to-grow plant that can yield a bountiful harvest when planted and cared for properly. Follow these basic guidelines:
- The plant prefers well-lit areas but can also grow in light shade. For optimal fruiting, choose a location where the shrub will receive sufficient sunlight throughout the day. The bed should be sunny, preferably receiving at least 6 hours of sun per day.
- The site should be protected from strong winds, especially in winter. Light, fertile loams with a neutral or slightly acidic soil reaction (pH 6-7) are preferred.
- Before planting the seedling, thoroughly prepare the soil. Dig the area to a depth of 30-40 cm, removing all weeds. Add organic fertilizer (humus or compost) at a rate of 4-5 kg per square meter. Add superphosphate and potassium fertilizers.
- If the soil is heavy and prone to waterlogging, add sand or fine gravel to improve drainage.
- ✓ The soil pH level should be strictly within 6-7; for accurate measurement, use a pH meter.
- ✓ The depth of the fertile layer should be at least 40 cm; if it is insufficient, add humus or compost.
Seedlings should be healthy, with a strong root system and no signs of disease or damage. Plant in spring or fall.
Step-by-step algorithm:
- Dig a hole about 40-50 cm deep and in diameter.
- Place the seedling in the hole so that the root collar is level with the soil. Cover the roots with soil, compacting it gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Moisten the bush generously with warm, settled water.
- × Watering with cold water can cause stress to the plant and reduce yield.
- × Overwatering leads to root rot, especially in heavy soils.
Proper and regular care will allow the plant to thrive and produce a bountiful harvest. Follow standard agricultural practices:
- Watering. Currants require regular watering, especially during flowering and fruit set. Pour warm, settled water under the roots.
- Top dressing. In the spring, after the snow melts, use nitrogen fertilizers to promote vigorous growth. In the summer, apply complex fertilizers with phosphorus and potassium to improve yields.
- Trimming. Perform annual sanitary pruning: remove old, diseased, and weak branches. Shorten young shoots to stimulate branching and new fruit formation.
- Mulching. Mulch made from straw, sawdust or humus will help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weed growth.
- Protection from pests and diseases. Conduct preventative treatments against key diseases and insects, including aphids, anthracnose, and septoria leaf spot. Regularly inspect the bushes for signs of damage and take action as needed.
- • To enhance the effect of nitrogen fertilizers in spring, combine them with micronutrients such as magnesium and zinc.
- • Summer fertilization with phosphorus and potassium should be carried out in the evening for better absorption.
Avoid planting currant seedlings in the same location for more than 3-4 years to prevent the accumulation of pathogens in the soil. During the winter, remove old and weak branches, as well as frost-damaged shoots.
Reviews
The Obilnaya currant is a great addition to any garden thanks to its high yield, ease of care, and delicious berries. Choosing the right planting site, regular watering, fertilizing, and timely pruning will help you grow healthy bushes and enjoy flavorful berries every season.