[Calou]

Having cleared a fair bit of my new plot I have uncovered some treasures. I thought I had two gooseberry bushes but so far I've found 5! Not to mention several Rhubarb and some wild blackberries (considerately planted at the rear of my plot). So my latest question is.................
How should I prune the gooseberries and when???
Can I take cuttings?
Will I require a suit of armour as they look somewhat aggressive?

[DD.]

This thread will give you splodger's concise instructions on pruning (page down a bit)..

http://www.chat.allotment-garden.org/viewtopic.php?p=51522#51522

This one tells you about cuttings, (but my book says October)

http://www.garden-centre.org/Gooseberries%20propagation.htm

Armour optional, but recommended

[Calou]

Thanks Digger, thats helped alot! I don't know how old the bushes are exactly but I'm guessing at more than four years. Apparently, they fruit well but are a little prone to mildew so I'll prune with caution and try the soapy solution next April.

What about moving established rhubarb, when or should I?

[DD.]

Wait until the leaves have died down, late autumn/early winter.

Lift the crowns, which can be split & move to the new area. It's best to wait a year until they are establised before harvesting, so perhaps you may want to leave some in the old spot for a while.

Some manure would not come amiss either.

Next!

[WG.]

See pruning in the Glossary of Terms.  All please feel free to vote in the poll & to contribute further terms (with or without definitions)

[Calou]

Thanks Digger, your a little star! Yes, I have many more questions lol, but two a day will do for now. Thanks WG for the direction.

[DD.]

Thanks Digger, your a little star! Yes, I have many more questions lol, but two a day will do for now. Thanks WG for the direction.

Most people call me a little something else, so I'll sleep contented tonight!