Currant Lasunya

Practical insights on growing Lasunya red currant

For growers focusing on early-season production, this variety from the Institute of Horticulture of NAAS is a reliable choice. The main operational advantage is its timing: with a 40–45 day ripening period, it provides the first harvest of the season, allowing for early market entry before the massive influx of mid-season varieties.

Cultivation and plant management

The variety forms a sprawling bush, which requires careful planning of planting density. From an operational standpoint, this form provides easy access for manual picking, though it may require support systems (trellising) to prevent the branches from sagging under the weight of the fruit. Yielding 3–4 kg per bush, Lasunya performs consistently under standard commercial management.

Resistance is a key factor that simplifies maintenance and reduces input costs. The variety shows excellent resistance to three major pathogens:

• Powdery mildew: reduces the need for frequent fungicide applications.
• Anthracnose: keeps the foliage healthy through late autumn, vital for winter hardiness.
• Septoria leaf spot: minimizes the risk of premature defoliation.

With berry sizes ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 cm, the fruit maintains a bright red color and firm skin, which simplifies post-harvest logistics. The skin durability ensures less damage during transport and handling, maintaining marketability for regional distribution.