Pruning golden currant - Ask Extension
Hello! I have a few golden currant (Ribes aureum) shrubs in my yard that I’d like to prune. I’m a search online I found recommendations both to 1)...
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Pruning golden currant #931156
Asked May 09, 2026, 1:04 PM EDT
Hello! I have a few golden currant (Ribes aureum) shrubs in my yard that I’d like to prune. I’m a search online I found recommendations both to 1) prune golden currant in late winter to early spring (before flowering) or 2) to prune right after flowering. Which do you recommend? I live in Bend. Thank you!
Deschutes County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi Karen:
Actually, either will be fine for the plant. I would recommend the late winter/early spring timeline, before flowering. The flowers will eventually develop edible berries that provide food for the birds.
The big no-no is a late fall trim. Trimming will promote growth and that growth can be impacted by early frost damage in our area.
I'm attaching a bulletin that goes into more detail for you.
Golden Current
Thank you for your question,
Actually, either will be fine for the plant. I would recommend the late winter/early spring timeline, before flowering. The flowers will eventually develop edible berries that provide food for the birds.
The big no-no is a late fall trim. Trimming will promote growth and that growth can be impacted by early frost damage in our area.
I'm attaching a bulletin that goes into more detail for you.
Golden Current
Thank you for your question,
