Black Currant (Ribes nigrum) MINAI SHMYREV

Black Currant (Ribes nigrum) 'Minai Shmyrev'

Belarusian classic for the harshest frosts with excellent taste.

'Minai Shmyrev' is a proven Belarusian variety bred specifically for the harshest climatic conditions. It is a "champion" in frost resistance, capable of surviving temperatures down to -40 °C. Although the berries are medium-sized, they stand out with their very good, sweet-sour taste and high Vitamin C content. It is the ideal choice for cold regions where other varieties fail, although it requires protection against American powdery mildew.

Key Highlights:

• Extreme frost resistance: Tolerates -34 °C down to -40 °C.
• High yield: Stable harvests (approx. 8.3 t/ha).
• High self-fertility: Produces reliably without pollinators.
• Good taste: Rated 4.3/5, juicy flesh.
• Suitable for the coldest regions.

Origin and Registration

• Origin: Belarus (Institute for Fruit Growing, NAS). Breeder A. G. Voluznev. Registered in 1979.

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Medium vigor, semi-spreading.
• Shoots: Young shoots are green with an anthocyanin (reddish) tint; woody shoots are gray-brown and glossy.
• Productivity: High and regular.

Fruit

• Size and Weight: Medium-sized (average 0.9 g).
• Shape and Color: Oval-round, black, matte berries. Skin is thin.
• Taste: Pleasant, sweet-sour. Flesh is very juicy.
• Nutrients: High Vitamin C content (168 mg/100 g).
• Usage: Universal – fresh consumption, freezing, processing.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost: The variety is extremely winter hardy (suitable for the harshest conditions).
• Diseases: Relatively resistant to anthracnose, but highly susceptible to American powdery mildew (requires preventive protection or an airy location).

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollination: High self-fertility.
• Location: Choose an airy spot to reduce mildew risk.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Mid-early.
• Harvest: Berries have a dry scar (do not leak juice) and are easy to pick.