Gooseberry - Easy Pickings (Ribes uva-crispa 'Easy Pickings')

The Easy Pickings Gooseberry is a cultivar of Ribes uva-crispa, distinguished by its manageable thorniness and abundant fruit production. This bush typically grows to a height and spread of about 3 to 4 feet, making it a compact choice for gardens. It is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 8, aligning well with many Canadian climates. The Easy Pickings Gooseberry prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It thrives best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

This variety is particularly noted for its ease of picking due to its relatively sparse thorns, a trait appreciated by gardeners during harvest. The berries are medium to large in size, deep red when ripe, and typically ready to pick in mid to late summer. They are known for their sweet yet slightly tangy flavor, making them excellent for fresh eating, pies, and preserves.

The gooseberry has a rich history in culinary traditions across Europe and North America. 'Easy Pickings', with its user-friendly harvesting and delicious fruit, represents a modern advancement in gooseberry cultivation, offering a blend of tradition and convenience for today's gardeners. Its suitability for small spaces and high yield makes it a favorable choice for those looking to grow fruit in home gardens.

Introduced by Boughen Nurseries in Canada.