Are gooseberries outlawed in some states?

Question

I once read that they can cause problems for White Pine trees if planted nearby.

Is there a listing on the internet somewhere of the states prohibiting the planting of gooseberries?

Answer 1

Legalities of Growing

In the early 1900s, the federal and state governments outlawed the growing of currants and gooseberries to prevent the spread white pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola). This fungal disease attacks both Ribes and white pines, which must live in close proximity for the blister rust fungus to complete its life cycle.

Black currants (Ribes nigrum) and white pines (Pinus strobus) are extremely susceptible, and red currants and gooseberries exhibit varying degrees of susceptibility.

Although the federal ban was rescinded in 1966, some northern states still prohibit the planting or cultivation of black currants. In 2003 though, New York State passed a law that modified its ban to allow commercial growers and home gardeners to legally grow red currants, gooseberries and immune or resistant cultivars of black currants throughout New York State.

Some black currant types, such as the cultivars 'Consort', 'Crusader', and 'Titania' are hybrids that are resistant to the blister rust fungus. They can be planted in areas where other currants and gooseberries are permitted.

http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/mfruit/goos...

Answer 2

Not any more as there are now resistant varieties that do not harbor White pine rust diseases.

Answer 3

Rust fungus and lobbyists.

/////////////// BIOLOGY

White pine rust is a fungus which stunts and kills conifer trees. The fungus is a paracite which develops in two hosts. One is either gooseberries or currents. If these plants are eliminated from an area, the life cycle of the rust fungus is broken.

////////////////// SOCIAL SCIENCE

Economically, white pine is far more valuable than fruit bushes, so local politicians have been persuaded by lumber lobbyists to pass these laws. Without the election funds from lumber companies, these politicians can not get re-elected.