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Pruning guide · Shrub
Flowering currant: when and how to prune
Ribes sanguineum
Flowering currant is best pruned in April–May.
| Pruning months | April–May |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in April–May |
| Flowering | March–May |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Flowering currant: when to prune it?
After flowering (April–May).
Flowering currant: how to prune it?
- Every year, cut a few of the oldest branches off at the base; this keeps it young and free-flowering.
- Shorten overlong branches that have flowered back to a strong side branch.
- Rejuvenate an old, bare shrub over two or three years, removing a third of the oldest branches each time.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April–May.
- Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in April–May can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
- Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.
Caution: Do not prune in winter or before flowering: you would cut off the flower buds. April–May falls in the nesting season: check for nesting birds first.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from mezereon · Difference from blackcurrant
Plant profile: Flowering currant · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.