The gall aphid is one of the most common pests of currants, capable of causing significant damage to the bush and reducing its yield.
These tiny insects feed on the sap of young shoots and leaves, causing them to become twisted, curled and form characteristic blisters known as galls.
Anastasia Kovrizhnykh , an expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", an agronomist and landscape designer, told how to act correctly in such a situation.
A comprehensive solution and timely use of various methods are required to combat gall aphids.
Signs of currant damage by gall aphid
A careful examination of the bush will help to identify the first signs of damage by gall aphids.
Red or yellow swellings appear on young shoots and leaves, which gradually increase in size.
Leaves become deformed, curl and dry out. If the damage is severe, shoot growth slows down, and the bush loses its decorative qualities and productivity.
Causes of gall aphid appearance
Gall aphids are spread by wind, ants and other insects.
Favorable conditions for its reproduction are warm and humid weather, dense plantings, and lack of care for the bush. The pest overwinters in the egg stage on the bark of shoots, and in the spring, with the onset of warmth, the larvae begin to actively feed on the sap of the plant.
Agrotechnical methods of control
One of the main methods of combating gall aphids is agricultural practices.
Regular pruning of the bush, removal of affected shoots and fallen leaves helps to reduce the number of pests.
It is also important to thin out dense plantings to ensure good ventilation and access to sunlight.
As a preventative measure, it is recommended to dig up the soil around the bush in the fall and spring, destroying the overwintering stages of aphids.
Biological control methods
Biological methods of controlling gall aphids are based on the use of their natural enemies – ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies.
Attracting these beneficial insects to your garden will help reduce aphid numbers and maintain ecological balance.
To achieve this, you can plant honey plants next to the currants, for example, dill, fennel, and coriander.
Chemical control methods
In case of severe damage to currants by gall aphids, when other methods do not bring the desired result, chemical preparations - insecticides can be used.
It is important to choose preparations approved for use on berry crops and strictly follow the instructions for use.
The treatment is carried out in calm weather, in the morning or evening, avoiding contact of the preparation with flowers and fruits.
Fighting with folk methods
Traditional methods of combating gall aphids are based on infusions and decoctions of plants that have insecticidal properties.
For example, you can use an infusion of garlic, onion, tobacco, wormwood, yarrow. These products are less effective than chemicals, but are safer for the environment and human health.
Earlier we told you what to add to the beds in May to improve the composition of the soil.
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
