2024-SCBG-Goodberry & Currant Varieties in Eastern Kentucky

Currants and gooseberries are two closely related species within the genus Ribes. The fruit is versatile and nutritious and varies in presentation, flavor, shape, size, texture, and color.Because of their tart flavor, currants are seldom eaten fresh but are used for processing into juices, jams, and jellies. Cultivated forms of gooseberries are divided into two major types, European (Ribes grossularia var. uva- crispa) and American (R. hirtellum). Hundreds of European cultivars have been developed with a focus on prize-winning fruit size and color.Native American gooseberry species have smaller fruit size and less flavor, but they are more resistant to diseases when compared to European cultivars, which are noted for powdery mildew and leaf spot susceptibility. I propose establishing a Ribes planting at the Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability. To be planted: Hinnomaki Red gooseberry. Titania black currant, Viking red currant, and Primus white currant. Other varieties are available but these are specifically resistant to White Pine Blister Rust and Mildew limiting potential disease issues. The fruit of these plants can be processed in the commercial kitchen and can be demonstrated at the local farmers market as well as at events at the RCARS.