Perun, a wonderful late-ripening currant variety
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Characteristics of the variety
The cultivation of this shrub traces its origins to ancient Russian monks, who were the first to cultivate it on monastery grounds. Over time, currants spread to other Western European countries. They are still revered and eagerly enjoyed both in our country and abroad.
What should a gardener first know if they want to add a few seedlings of this blackcurrant to their collection? This variety is mid-late, producing fruit in the second half of July to early August. The bush grows small but quite dense. It's worth noting that this blackcurrant variety, first introduced in 1995, was included in the State Register of the Most Productive Varieties. It can be safely grown in the central regions of the country, characterized by a moderate climate and relatively low winter temperatures.
The fruits have a black, shiny skin, are quite sweet, and have a pleasant aroma. Regarding yield, with proper care, a single bush can yield up to 1-2 kg of ripe berries during harvest. This variety is considered versatile: it's eaten fresh, but can also be preserved for the winter in various ways (freezing, drying, making jams, compotes, liqueurs, and baking fillings).
The only thing to keep in mind when purchasing Perun currant seedlings is that the berries are not particularly large. They are small, so they are generally not sold commercially. However, the sweet flavor and rich aroma make this variety of home-grown berries truly worthy of any gardener's attention.
Growing and care
Black currants are not particularly demanding when it comes to care. However, the yield of this shrub is significantly affected by the region's climate, weather conditions, and soil quality and type. Creating an absolutely ideal microclimate for currant bushes is, of course, practically impossible. But simply planting the seedlings in the ground and forgetting about them until the fruit ripens isn't the best solution either.
Blackcurrant, also known as Perun, is quite sensitive to weather. For example, if the summer is very hot and dry, the bushes may produce significantly fewer berries, but the fruit will be even sweeter. To avoid wondering what the next harvest will be like and whether you've done everything correctly, it's crucial to properly plant the seedlings in the ground, following basic recommendations from experts.
As for the optimal time for planting the plant in the ground, autumn is considered the best time. This can be done in the spring, but it's best to do it at the end of the season. This way, the seedlings will have enough time to fully root and strengthen before spring. The shrub can be propagated in various ways: by cuttings, layering, or division—the plant isn't picky in this regard either.
How to properly care for the blackcurrant known as Perun? First and foremost, ensure regular and sufficient watering. Particular attention should be paid to this procedure during the formation and ripening of the fruit, as well as after harvest. Try to let the water settle for the required time. Drip irrigation is the optimal irrigation method for the plant.
Remember: it's best to plant currants in a well-lit area, not in partial shade. It's also recommended to choose areas protected from strong winds. Choosing the right location for currant seedlings is 50% of the success. But don't rest on your laurels.
To reap a truly bountiful harvest in the second half of summer, it's essential to provide comprehensive care for your currant bushes, which involves several steps:
- adjusting the shape of the bush;
- timely removal of weeds from the soil;
- operational pest control.
By following all these key recommendations, you'll stimulate the growth of your currant bushes. Put in the effort, and you'll be pleased with the results.
Advantages of the variety
If you're looking for blackcurrant varieties to sell at markets, you might not notice the Perun variety. But if your primary goal is to harvest healthy, aromatic, and highly nutritious berries, it's worth investing in a few seedlings for your garden. Here are some advantages of this blackcurrant variety:
- high taste characteristics;
- good yield indicators;
- resistance of shrubs to relatively low temperatures in winter;
- the plant’s resistance to some dangerous diseases – powdery mildew, anthracnose, as well as the invasion of bud mites;
- good adaptation to a fairly long period of drought.
All these advantages of the variety are a good reason to buy seedlings at the market, aren’t they?
Survival and yield of the variety in different regions
The currant variety Perun is an ideal choice for gardeners living in central Russia. Its characteristics allow it to be grown in areas prone to low winter temperatures and spring frosts. Regarding the quality of the soil mixture in which the bush grows, there are no specific recommendations or requirements. The main thing is to plant the seedlings correctly and then provide thorough care.
Video: How to Properly Care for and Plant Currants
This video will teach you how to properly care for and plant any variety of currant.