Seed contained in the organic mantle probably killed by severe fire, but seed buried in the mineral soil probably survives. Severe fire creates canopy openings and suitable mineral seedbeds for gooseberry establishment. Some seed dispersal by animals, but many berries fall to the ground beneath the parent plant. Scarification and stratification enhance germination. Mineral soil is the best seedbed.
Seeds have longterm viability, accumulating in the organic layer and mineral soil over time.
The ability to regenerate vegetatively by rhizomes or by sprouting is not documented. By seed, following scarification and cold stratification. Because of their association with the rust, Ribes spp. Only a few bushes per acre are sufficient to perpetuate blister rust.