Blackcurrant Ben Mapua
Blackcurrant Ben Mapua is a vigorous, deciduous shrub bred in New Zealand for its high yields of large, glossy black fruit with rich flavour and excellent disease resistance. Fruit ripens from mid to late summer, making it ideal for fresh eating, preserves, or juicing. The bush grows to around 1.2-1.5 metres high and wide, with a neat, upright habit suited to both home gardens and small orchards.
Plant in full sun with free-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Space plants 1.2-1.5 metres apart for airflow and ease of harvest. Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune during winter to remove older wood and encourage strong new growth for the following season’s crop. Protect from late frosts during flowering for best fruit set.
Trimming: Prune during winter dormancy (late autumn to mid-winter) to maintain an open shape and encourage productive new wood. Remove old, weak, or crossing stems at the base, aiming to retain 6-10 strong young stems.
Deadheading: Not required, as blackcurrants are grown for fruit, not ornamental flowering.
Fertilising: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertiliser or composted manure to support fruit production. A mulch of organic matter will also help retain moisture and improve soil health.
Watering: Water regularly during dry spells, particularly in spring and summer while fruit is developing. Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Pest Control: Watch for aphids and currant blister aphid (causing red blisters on leaves). Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Birds may target the fruit-use netting to protect crops.
Disease Management: Monitor for powdery mildew (white coating on leaves/shoots) and leaf spot. Remove affected foliage and improve air circulation. Ensure good spacing and avoid overhead watering. Use copper-based fungicides if needed.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
