Kitchen Garden Forum

Can anyone tell me if it's worth trying to relocate a 3 year old redcurrant bush? I'm currently (ha!) in the process of downsizing to a half-plot which unfortunately means losing all my fruit bushes. It's just all been a bit much for me lately which is why I haven't been around for a while. I have been watching you all though!

How much would a replacement cost?
How good are your "digging things up without leaving the roots behind" skills?

Answer those two questions and you'll have the answer to your own question.

I'd give it a try, with as big a rootball as possible. I moved an ancient gooseberry bush once, didn't think it stood a chance, but it thrived and was very productive. But the longer into winter you can leave it, the better.

I agree with pongeroon. All currants have big shallow fibrous root systems so with a big rootball into good soil it should hardly know it has been moved. Keep it well watered for a year as a precaution.

Currants take hardwood cuttings easily - perhaps you could just chop a few bits off and stick them in the new location ?

I'd have a go but take some cuttings as an insurance. The trouble is if you just take cuttings you'll have to wait a while for any fruit.

I'd make sure the ground is well watered before moving if your soil is still as dry as ours is.