Gooseberry

Gooseberries are the first soft fruits in many gardens, especially if the immature green berries are thinned in May for cooking. Like redcurrants, plants develop a permanent system of fruiting sideshoots, and may be trained as fans, espaliers, cordons and standards, as well as bushes. 'Whinham's Industry' is a popular red-fruited variety which is happy in partial shade. It is an excellent choice for heavy soils but is prone to mildew. The Royal Horticultural Society have given it their prestigious Award of Garden Merit.