Culture
Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers full sun. Plant in a location protected from strong winds and frost pockets. Plant bare root bushes in October or November. Needs regular summer and winter prunings to maximize fruit production.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Ribes uva-crispa, commonly called gooseberry, is a deciduous shrub which is primarily grown for its edible berries.
Genus name comes from the Danish word ribs meaning red currant.
'Invicta' is noted for its high fruit yields. Insignificant flowers appear in April, followed by almost golf ball sized, pale green berries with a mildly tart flavor that ripen in July. Vigorous, spreading growth habit. Has numerous thorns which make pruning more difficult.
Problems
Leaf spots, anthracnose, rust, aphids, scale, and mites are possible problems. This cultivar is mildew resistant. Although this cultivar is also resistant to white pine blister rust, it is illegal to plant it in specified areas of some states (particularly in the Northeast and Northwest) where bans on Ribes species are still in effect to protect large stands of white pines (certain Ribes plants are an alternate host for the disease). Missouri has no restrictions on Ribes plants.
Garden Uses
Grow in a protected location in the vegetable garden or fruit garden.