Raspberries, a favorite berry for many, often fall prey to pests.It is especially annoying to find a small worm in a ripe berry..
Fighting them can turn into a quest for a gardener.But there are effective methods for protecting raspberries, allowing you to enjoy clean and tasty berries without hassle.
Understanding the problem: who harms raspberries
Before you begin pest control, it is important to understand exactly who you are fighting.Most often, the «worms» in raspberries are the larvae of the raspberry fly or raspberry beetle.
These insects lay eggs in flowers or young ovaries, from which larvae then hatch, spoiling the berries from the inside.
Chemical means of protection
The fastest and most effective way to control pests is to use chemical insecticides.
Preparations such as Aktara, Confidor or Iskra can quickly destroy both adult insects and their larvae.
However, it is important to remember that the use of chemicals requires strict adherence to instructions and processing times in order to prevent harmful substances from entering the berries.
Biological methods of protection
For those who prefer more environmentally friendly methods, there are biological products.
Products based on bacteria and fungi, such as Fitoverm or Bitoxibacillin, effectively fight pests without harming the environment.These preparations are safe for humans and animals, which allows them to be used even shortly before harvesting.
Folk remedies for pest control
Many gardeners successfully use folk methods for protecting raspberries. Infusions of wormwood, garlic or tobacco can repel pests.
Spraying bushes with a solution of wood ash can also be effective. Although these methods require more frequent use, they are absolutely safe and available to everyone.
Preventive measures
It is much easier to prevent the appearance of worms in raspberries than to deal with an existing problem.
Regular cleaning of fallen leaves and berries, loosening the soil around the bushes help to destroy the wintering places of pests.
Timely pruning and thinning of bushes improves air circulation, which also has an adverse effect on the life of insects.
Choosing resistant varieties
Breeders are constantly working on developing raspberry varieties that are resistant to various pests.
Choosing such varieties for planting can significantly reduce the risk of berry damage by worms. Among the resistant varieties, one can note ‘Gusar’, ‘Patricia’ and ‘Beauty of Russia’.
An integrated approach to protection
The most effective is a comprehensive approach to protecting raspberries from pests. A combination of different methods – from preventive measures to the use of chemicals in extreme cases – allows you to achieve the best results.
It is important to remember that regular monitoring of the condition of plants helps to identify the problem in time and take the necessary measures.
Timing and frequency of treatment
These drugs are safe for humans and animals, which allows them to be used even shortly before harvest.
Folk remedies for pest control
Many gardeners successfully use traditional methods of protecting raspberries.Infusions of wormwood, garlic or tobacco can repel pests.
Spraying the bushes with a solution of wood ash can also be effective.Although these methods require more frequent use, they are absolutely safe and accessible to everyone.
Preventive measures
Preventing worms from appearing in raspberries is much easier than dealing with an existing problem.
Regular cleaning of fallen leaves and berries, loosening the soil around the bushes help destroy wintering sites for pests.
Timely pruning and thinning of bushes improves air circulation, which also adversely affects the life of insects.
Selection of resistant varieties
Breeders are constantly working to develop raspberry varieties that are resistant to various pests.
Choosing such varieties for planting can significantly reduce the risk of berries being damaged by worms.Among the resistant varieties are «Gussar», «Patricia» and «Beauty of Russia».
An integrated approach to protection
The most effective is an integrated approach to protecting raspberries from pests.A combination of different methods – from preventive measures to the use of chemicals in extreme cases – allows you to achieve the best results.
It is important to remember that regular monitoring of the condition of plants helps to identify the problem in time and take the necessary measures.
Terms and frequency of processing
Regardless of the chosen method of protection, it is important to choose the right time and frequency of processing raspberries.
The first spraying is usually carried out in the spring, before flowering.Then the treatment is repeated after flowering and, if necessary, during the formation of berries.The exact timing depends on climatic conditions and the chosen drug.
Safety during processing
When using any means for spraying raspberries, safety precautions must be observed.You should work in protective clothing, gloves and a respirator.
It is especially important to consider the direction of the wind when spraying drugs.After handling, you must thoroughly wash your hands and tools.
Earlier we told you that it is absolutely forbidden to plant them next to currants.
