Fruit finale – all the W’s

Whitecurrants

Harvest – July to September

Position – Open, sunny or partly shaded north facing walls and fence sheltered from frost and strong winds. Prefer a slightly acid, moist but well-drained fertile soil.

Planting – Water thoroughly or stand container in water for an hour before planting. Plant in hole large enough to avoid disturbing the root ball. Back-fill with soil previously mixed with peat substitute and a suitable fertilizer.

Plant care – Fruit is produced on previous year’s growth and older shoots. Cut back the main branches by half after planting. Create a framework of 8-10 branches. Each winter from year 3 shorten main shoots by half. Apply a general fertiliser in spring.

Whitecurrant coulis

Place 250g of whitecurrants in a pan with 50g of sugar. Cook over a low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the fruit is soft. Taste and add more sugar if necessary. Press the fruit through a sieve into the final dish. Sharpen the flavour with a little lemon or lime juice to taste.

Worcesterberry

Harvest – July to September

Position – Moist but not waterlogged soil. Sheltered site in sun or partial shade.

Planting – Water thoroughly or stand container in water for an hour before planting. Plant in hole large enough to avoid disturbing the root ball. Back-fill with soil previously mixed with peat substitute and a suitable fertilizer.

Plant care – Keep moist. Avoid disturbing roots after planting.

Worcesterberry curd

Blend 1 cup of worcesterberries and place in a bowl with 100g of butter, place over a pan of simmering water and stir until the mixture has melted. Lightly whisk in 3 eggs until the ingredients are combined. Leave to cool.