Q&A for How to Prune Gooseberry

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How do you sterilize garden cutting tools?

Ryan Glynn, CPA
Plant Specialist & Interiorscaper
Ryan Glynn is a Plant Specialist, Interiorscaper, and the Founder of Chicago Plants, LLC. He specializes in houseplant care, interior plant-scaping, and gardening. Ryan and Chicago Plants have been featured in several media outlets such as TimeOut Magazine and the Chicago Tribune. Ryan holds a BBA and Master’s degree in Accounting from The University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Ryan Glynn, CPA

Plant Specialist & Interiorscaper

Expert Answer

The best way to do it is with isopropyl alcohol! Typically, a lot of build-up can accumulate on the shears, whether it's from insects or the plants themselves. Wiping down the blades with isopropyl alcohol prevents you from spreading any potential disease from one plant to another.

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Why do the green berries fall on the ground, before ripening almost every year? And the leaves dry up at that time.

Alison Dill

Community Answer

You need to water them more. Maybe you should do a drip line mechanism. The problem might also be the fertilization process. You could be putting too many chemicals in your tree or bush. But then again, the problem might be your soil––maybe if the bush or tree is small enough, you could just move the tree?

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My young bushes have a mass of long fragile soft shoots due to incorrect pruning. Gentle summer pruning would seem to be inadequate. Winter pruning would seem to be appropriate but it is not winter.

Community Answer

Wait till fall, then do a big winter chop and by summer they will even out beautifully before summer and you will have your desired bush size.

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How much of the new growth on my 4- or 5-year-old gooseberry bushes can I prune to make picking easier?

Maura Behan

Top Answerer

Prune about a third of the new growth, but be careful not to overdo it.

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Should I follow the same steps for pruning an old, unpruned gooseberry bush?

Umar Asif

Community Answer

To care for your inherited gooseberry bush, especially if it's unpruned, you should follow a few specific steps to ensure its health and productivity. First, inspect the plant for signs of disease, pests, or overall health. Look for dead or diseased branches, and assess its general shape. If possible, identify the variety of gooseberry, as some varieties may have specific needs.

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Can I prune gooseberry branches in the summer?

Candice Treadway

Community Answer

Yes, you can prune gooseberry branches in the summer, especially if the branches are causing any issues.

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Should I prune my six-year-old gooseberry bushes, which have never been pruned?

Deomilo31

Community Answer

You should prune your six-year-old gooseberry bushes to maintain their health and shape, promoting better growth and fruit production. Start by removing dead or diseased branches, cutting back to healthy wood, and thinning crowded areas to improve air circulation and light penetration. Shape the bushes into an open vase form, using sharp, clean tools, and prune during the dormant season to minimize stress.

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