WSU Extension

Hortsense

Raspberry : Aphids
(revision date: 3/22/2021)


Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Biology
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects. They vary in color from yellow to green to brownish. Aphids on raspberries are typically found in colonies on the young growing tips of canes or on the underside of leaves. Feeding aphids can produce large amounts of honeydew, a sweet, sticky material which may attract honeydew-feeding ants or become covered with a dark growth of sooty mold. Honeydew and sooty mold can reduce the quality of fruit. Raspberry aphids can also transmit the raspberry mosaic virus, but spread of the virus is relatively slow. Aphids are not usually a serious problem on raspberries.
Management Options

Non-Chemical Management
  • Plant certified, virus-free stock.
  • Encourage natural enemies including ladybird beetles, lacewings, syrphid (hover) fly larvae, and parasitic wasps. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill beneficial insects.
  • Control honeydew-feeding ants, which may protect aphid colonies from predators.
  • Provide proper nutrition. High levels of nitrogen in the foliage encourage aphid reproduction. Switch to a slow-release or low-nitrogen fertilizer when practical.
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides

Thorough coverage of the foliage is important, including lower leaf surfaces. Apply when aphids are beginning to build up.

Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.
  • All Seasons Horticultural & Dormant Spray Oil Conc [Organic]
    Active ingredient: oil/pet distillate  |  EPA reg no: 4-80
  • Bug Buster-O [Organic]
    Active ingredient: pyrethrins  |  EPA reg no: 1021-1771-54705
  • Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap Conc II [Organic]
    Active ingredient: potassium salts of fatty acid  |  EPA reg no: 42697-60
  • This list may not include all products registered for this use.
Images
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Caption: Raspberry aphid
Photo by: E.P. Breakey
Caption: Aphid colony
Photo by: A.L. Antonelli
Caption: Aphid cast skins
Photo by: R.S. Byther