Currant, Gooseberry: Currant aphids
Photo by: A.L. Antonelli
Biology
Currant aphids are common on currants and are found occasionally on gooseberries. The aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped, yellowish insects. They typically feed on the underside of leaves, causing cupping and distortion of leaves. Infested leaves often show a yellow to reddish discoloration. Feeding aphids 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.
Currant aphids overwinter as eggs on the bark of the host plant.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Encourage natural enemies including ladybird beetles, lacewings, syrphid (hover) fly larvae, and parasitic wasps. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill beneficial insects.
- Hand-wipe to help control small, localized infestations.
- Wash aphids from plants with a strong stream of water.
- 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.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Always read and follow label directions when working with pesticides.
For more information on using pesticides visit :
- Apply when aphids appear.
- Direct sprays to undersides of leaves.
- Soaps may require several applications.
Approved Pesticides
If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below. Some products are labeled for just INDOOR or just OUTDOOR use, or may allow both uses. Be sure to choose a product appropriate for your situation. Always read and follow all label directions.
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.