Pinkish red fruits are large, flavorful and productive. Nearly thornless. Good disease resistance. Welcome Gooseberry is a hardy Minnesota selection.
ZONE: 4-9
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Early spring, but late enough to usually avoid frost damage to blooms. Self-fertile.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full to 1/2 sun. Prefers moist neutral-to-acid soil high in organic matter and appreciates afternoon shade in hotter climates. Reduce grass competition in root zone by applying 2-3" layer of wood chips. Apply aged manure under chips yearly. Gooseberries like morning sun, afternoon part-shade and buoyant air circulation. They are most productive in full sunlight but the leaves sunburn easily under warm weather regions. They can be grown in the high shade of fruit trees such as persimmon or on the north side of buildings. Regular pruning to remove old branches is important - thin to 6-8 largest canes to allow for good airflow each spring.
CHILL HOURS: Medium-high: 800-1000 hours below 45F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Very good. Resistance to white pine blister rust, powdery mildew.
SIZE AT MATURITY: To 2-4' x 4-6'
