Gooseberries (Ribes uva-crispa) Canadians are starting to realize what an easy landscaping plant the gooseberry is. In Europe you will find several bushes tucked into almost every backyard garden or used as an ornamental planting alongside the house. Gooseberries prefer morning sun, partial shade in the afternoon and good air circulation. As most varieties will tolerate brutally cold winters, it is especially important to plant in shade in warmer regions. Mulch heavily to keep the roots cool and moist. These hardy, compact shrubs have arching branches and typically mature at approximately 1-2 m (4') high and wide. The berries make incredible pies and are great for fresh eating as well as for preserves and drying. Gooseberries ripen mid-summer. Bareroot plants