Currants and gooseberries have a productive life of 10 to 20 years. Purchase plants from reputable nurseries. Both species are self-fruitful and do not require pollinators to produce fruit. Both currants and gooseberries grow well in Ohio. Summer heat and drought reduce production.
Gooseberry fruit can scald in hot weather or if exposed directly to sun.
Choose a northern or northeastern slope, or a site that is cool, but sunny. Currants and gooseberries will grow in shade, but then they are more susceptible to mildew. Good air circulation is important for disease prevention. Gooseberries are more susceptible to mildew than currants. If a sloping site is selected, place currants below gooseberries.