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Can You Grow Red Currant in Michigan?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

Red currants are perfectly suited to your cool climate — they fruit reliably every year.

Plant zones

3a–6b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Red Currant

Red currants produce clusters of jewel-like berries in early summer — tart, high in pectin, and exceptional for jams, jellies, and juice. One of the most cold-hardy small fruits available.

Plant in a sheltered spot with good air circulation. Fruits on two and three-year-old wood — prune out older stems annually. Harvest full clusters in midsummer. Birds love them, so net the bush as they ripen.

Full red currant growing guide →

Gardening in Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.

See what grows well in Michigan →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Red Currant in Michigan?

Red currants are perfectly suited to your cool climate — they fruit reliably every year.

What zone is Michigan?

Michigan spans USDA Zone 5b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a).

When do you plant Red Currants in Michigan?

See the planting guide for Red Currant — timing depends on your exact frost date.