Knowledgebase
Red Currant with Aphids ? #874900
Asked June 27, 2024, 12:05 AM EDT
Lane County Oregon
Expert Response
That is the currant aphid (Cryptomyzus ribis). The aphids feed on the leaves causes the puckering and distortion you see. You can try washing the aphids from the plant with a strong stream of water from a garden hose. There are a number of natural enemies that feed on the aphids, such as ladybugs, hover fly, lacewings and parasitic wasps. If you use a pesticide, avoid using a broad-spectrum pesticide that will also kill the natural enemies. The mint oil-soap spray you used on the plum aphids should also work here. It looks like a large outbreak, so it may require several sprays. Other options include azadirachtin, which is a narrow range pesticide that will target aphids, and only affects a few natural enemies. During the dormant season you can use a dormant oil spray. For more on this pest, including lifecycle and management options, refer to https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/small-fruit/currant-gooseberry/currant-gooseberry-currant-aphid