Gooseberry gooseberry Gooseberry is a hardy, spiny fruit bush valued for tart to sweet berries used fresh, in desserts, jams, and cooking. It thrives in cool climates and is well-suited to most of Sweden (zones 1–7 depending on cultivar). Flowers are frost-tolerant, and bushes bear on 1–3-year-old wood, with peak production on 2-year shoots. Modern mildew-resistant cultivars greatly ease care. Birds relish the fruit, so netting is often necessary. Thorns make harvesting and pruning careful work; gloves recommended. Growing conditions LightFull sun to light shade; best fruit quality in full sun with good airflow. In hot microclimates, provide afternoon shade to reduce sunscald and mildew. Soil typeMoist, well-drained loam rich in organic matter. Avoid waterlogging. Mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist. Water requirementModerate and regular; keep evenly moist from flowering to harvest. Avoid drought and waterlogging. Nutrient requirementMedium. Low to moderate nitrogen to avoid rank, mildew-prone growth. Favor compost and slow-release organic feeds. Back to plant list
