Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) BELORUSSKAJA SLADKAJA

'Belorusskaya Sladkaya' is one of the most popular and widespread blackcurrant varieties, whose name translates to "Belarusian Sweet." It fully earns its name thanks to the excellent sweet taste of its berries, which are high in sugar and Vitamin C. The bush grows vigorously and produces very high yields of large, firm berries. Another major advantage is its high self-fertility and good resistance to powdery mildew and anthracnose, making it a low-maintenance and reliable variety.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Excellent sweet taste: The berries are delicious, aromatic, and among the sweetest available.
• High productivity: Delivers an abundant and reliable harvest (average of 3.7 kg per bush).
• High self-fertility: Produces well even without another variety nearby.
• Good disease resistance: Resistant to powdery mildew and anthracnose.
• Large and firm berries: They handle transport and short-term storage well.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Belarus
• Breeder: A. G. Voluznev
• Year of registration: 1979

Variety Characteristics

Bush

Growth is strong (up to 1.2 m); the bush is moderately spreading and dense. It is highly self-fertile, so a pollinator is not necessary for a good harvest.

Fruit

• Size: Large (1.1–1.6 g).
• Skin: Firm, glossy, black.
• Taste: Excellent, sweet, with a good aroma.
• Nutritional value: High in Vitamin C (200–300 mg/100g).

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost hardiness: The bush is highly frost-hardy. However, the flowers can be sensitive to late spring frosts.
• Diseases: It is resistant to powdery mildew and anthracnose.

Growing Recommendations

• Use: A versatile variety for fresh consumption, freezing, and processing (jams, juices, wine).
• Suitability: Thanks to its low maintenance and great taste, it is ideal for all gardeners. Planting in a location protected from late spring frosts is recommended.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Mid-early, in the middle of July. Ripens unevenly, allowing for progressive harvesting.
• Harvest characteristics: Ripe berries do not drop from the bush.
• Transportability: High; the berries tolerate shipping well.