Aphids on gooseberries

Introduction

The gooseberry is a shrub that produces an abundant and delicious harvest. He has already managed to fall in love with many gardeners. Not only due to the fact that he has an increased yield. But also due to the fact that it is practically unpretentious. But nevertheless, sometimes there are some difficulties, because of which the plant may not produce a crop. He simply refuses to grow on the site. Aphids on gooseberries are one such reason.

The bush that has been attacked by her ceases to give a bountiful harvest. The quality of its appearance is also reduced. If these signs are not detected in time, then the bush in the future may even die altogether. To save the harvest, it is required to deal with the pest in a timely and comprehensive manner. In this article, we will tell you more about aphids, about the reasons why it affects the plant. And also about the main signs of defeat. Let us dwell in detail on what control and prevention measures exist in modern gardening. And they are used against aphids.

Aphids on gooseberries: a description of the pest

Today, gardeners have more than 400 species of aphids. And these are only those species that have been identified. So the number 400 is far from the limit for counting the species of this pest. They are small, elliptical insects that have small, semi-rigid wings. The color of aphids can be different. It ranges from black or dark brown to light green. It all depends on what type of aphid this or that pest belongs to.

In this case, the aphid practically does not move. But it can multiply insanely quickly. Most likely, it is precisely due to such a rate of reproduction that it can infect plants so quickly. In a month, one female can give a colony, which includes several thousand individuals. When environmental conditions worsen, winged individuals appear. They can move from one place to another in order to save their lives. Their lifestyle and breeding method is slower. But at the same time, the eggs are in a secluded place. And they can go through the harshest of times.

Aphids are polyphages. This means that they can eat absolutely any plant. Although they have their own preferences. Namely: apple and plum crops. Favorite shrubs are currants and gooseberries. It is quite simple to get rid of aphids on a gooseberry bush. Because it is enough to destroy the ants that act as aphid symbiotes. Ants can protect aphids from many natural enemies. And also transfer them to more succulent plants. Instead, the aphid secretes a sweet liquid that the ant itself feeds on. It is in such a duet that they can coexist. And also to destroy huge gooseberry plantations on various agricultural scales.

Aphids on gooseberries: signs of damage

Despite the fact that a large number of thorns can be located on the shoots, they remain tender and juicy. And so they attract aphids. Pests can spread at the very bases of the leaves. And also on the tips of young shoots. The aphids pierce the outer covers of the plant with special proboscis. And it feeds on cell sap, due to which the plant actually grows.

As a result of all this, the gooseberry loses all the necessary components that allow it to grow and develop. In particular, it loses chlorophyll, the processes of photosynthesis are disrupted.For this reason, we observe how the plant begins to get sick. Shoots slow down their growth, the leaves are getting smaller. The ovary practically does not occur. And if it is, then the fruits will be deformed. The taste and aroma will be absent in the same way as the beneficial properties of the plant.

In the initial stages, when the plant is infested, it is almost impossible to detect aphids. But later it becomes very noticeable. Especially by how destructive it does to plants. Young leaves begin to fade and curl. An identical situation occurs with shoots. Reliable signs that aphids have infected a shrub also include the appearance of ants and fallen on the leaves. As a rule, ants and aphids get along well and interact with each other. And therefore, where there are ants, aphid colonies can be found with a 100% probability.

Reasons for the appearance

There are several common and obvious reasons why gooseberry shrubs become infested with aphids. Among them, we will highlight the following:

• metabolic disorders in the plant itself. This can happen from a deficiency or vice versa from an overabundance of a trace element. Both in the plant itself and in its root system. As a rule, this is more influenced by such components and substances as potassium and phosphorus;
• aphids on gooseberries can also appear if there is a lot of weed around the bush;
• the presence of a large number of anthills near the gooseberry bushes. Ants are the carriers of aphids. So it is necessary to deal with anthills very quickly. Until they have grown;
• violation of the rules of agricultural technology. The wrong choice of place for planting a plant. Lack of timely pruning of shrubs, harvesting. You should also remove foliage that has fallen in time. And also provide the shrubs with moderate watering. It shouldn't be overwhelming or meager.

A plant that is not affected by insects and aphids can correctly form its immunity and resistance to stress. It will take root better. Will produce substances that repel aphids. Thus, it independently by its own natural forces will fight pests. To give a bountiful and stable harvest, which is what many gardeners are striving for when they plant gooseberries in their backyards.

Aphids on gooseberries: control methods

Aphids as a pest differ in that they can multiply very quickly. Therefore, as soon as the gardener discovered the first signs of aphid damage to the shrub, he should immediately take all possible measures to combat it. When the grower knows which measures are most effective, he can take them right away. And save the harvest.

It is best to take into account that optimal complex plant care is most effective. Here you can combine professional insecticides and chemicals with folk remedies. And they do it for preventive purposes. And also in order to directly treat the plant. Also, these funds allow you to clean the gooseberry from aphids. And also to protect the shrub from other pests for a sufficiently long time. This is very important in some especially dangerous seasons.

Chemical preparations are best used with the onset of early spring, when the leaves have not yet taken shape. Or after the plant has completed its flowering. This is due, as a rule, to the fact that insecticides can accumulate in any part of the gooseberry. And then they can affect the quality of the fruit. The concentration of insecticides lasts up to about one month. It is best in this case to use the instructions for the use of drugs. And only then it will be possible to get the maximum effect without any problems for the crop itself and for humans, of course.

Aphid control preparations

Aphids are a common insect.Therefore, against it, you can treat the plant with absolutely any insecticide. Among the most popular today are such drugs as:

• "Fufanon". It contains phosphorus and organic components. And also a substance called malathion. This insecticide is very effective. It can protect the plant even in small concentrations and doses. And the effect can last for about one month. This remedy is effective not only against aphids, but also against other insects and pests, including ticks. When the drug enters the digestive system of an insect along with the sap of a plant, it causes death, which occurs within one day. The tool is absolutely reliable, very reliable. Instructions for use are as simple as possible. Nevertheless, it is worth remembering that fufanon is best not combined with any other drugs. Because this can only harm the plant, and no benefit.
• Bi-58. This drug has been around for a long time. It was previously known as Ragor. The main substance is the phosphoric acid ester dimethoate. It is a systemic insecticide that is very effective against a wide range of pests. And aphids are no exception. Basically, the product does not stagnate in one place, but tends to the top of the bush. Even young shoots that have grown after sanitary or formal pruning remain protected. And this is the huge advantage of this drug. This has been repeatedly stated by gardeners, both experienced and those who are just starting their journey in this activity. The concentration, which is necessary to protect the plant, can be maintained for a month. Which is also an incredible plus of this drug.
• Aktara. Another systemic insecticide that is very popular among gardeners and gardeners. It is great for fighting more than just aphids. And also with the Colorado potato beetle and thrips, which love to feast on garden crops. The drug begins to act immediately after it has been sprayed over the plant. First, it enters the gastrointestinal tract of the insect pest, causing paralysis in it. And then the pest dies due to immobility and the inability to eat normally. The drug differs in that it has a very low price in comparison with all the others. And, as a rule, it is quite economical in consumption.

Other aphids

Actellik. An insecticide that belongs to the organophosphorus group. Contact and fumigate action prevails. This means that it penetrates directly into the body of the pest itself. And kills him from the inside, not allowing him to move and eat plants. Able to a certain, rather insignificant extent, accumulate in gooseberry tissues. Therefore, the processing should be done very carefully. In compliance with all the features of the technique of the agronomic process.

The drug "Arrivo" is a contact-intestinal insecticide. Quickly acts on the pest, killing him. Due to the fact that the drug is very toxic, aphids on gooseberries die in a short time. Valid after processing for 14 days. Does not accumulate in gooseberries.

Inta-vir is also an insecticide, about which at least a couple of words should be said. It comes in regular tablet form. The tool is quite economical. At the same time, it is also inexpensive, which is its huge advantage.

What else to use for aphids?

Regardless of which drug was chosen by the gardener, it is necessary to process the gooseberries in dry, calm weather. It is best for a gardener to follow safety precautions. Put on a mask, glasses, gloves. Do not consume food, water or alcohol during processing. Spraying is best done in the evening. Since direct sunlight can reduce the effect of the drug. And this is a huge disadvantage.But if you follow all the rules, the effect will come very quickly. So you should be careful about this.

There are also some biological agents for treating gooseberries for aphids. The most famous biological preparations are Fitoverm. Its main component is aversectin C, which has an excellent effect on insects and pests. Quickly and completely destroys entire colonies. In this case, the drug does not accumulate in the gooseberry. It is safe for the life and health of the gardener and his family.

You can take a broader drug called Arrow, which is bitoxibacillin. The active action of this drug copes well with all sorts of pests and, in particular, with aphids. This product does not pollute the environment at all, does not accumulate in the soil. It is quite convenient to use it not only for direct insect control. But also in order to carry out various preventive treatments of the plant.

In general, one should be very careful with biological insecticides. Dilute in the correct proportions as indicated on the package. And also follow the rules of application. Wear glasses, a mask, gloves. Do not drink or eat during handling. Even despite the biologically active effect, one way or another, the drug may be toxic to the gardener who is processing it. And safety, as you know, is above everything else.

Aphids on gooseberries: folk remedies for pests

There are also some folk remedies. Their advantages lie in the fact that their components can be collected directly on the garden plot. It is very convenient and saves time and effort in searching. Regardless of what is in the composition of the solution, which is a folk remedy, it is necessary to add grated soap there. Because it enhances the effect and helps the product adhere better to the leaves and stem.

For example, you can use the following to make folk tinctures:

• elderberry or lilac flowers;
• tomato, tansy. These are the most popular plants that can also be extremely effective insecticides;
• aphids are also afraid of aromatic additives. One of these is mustard;
• gooseberries can also be sprinkled with garlic tincture. It is also extremely effective. And the smell will really scare away these pests.

Aphids on gooseberries: prevention of the appearance

Of course, sometimes it is best to take some preventive measures. Because getting rid of aphids is much more difficult than preventing their appearance and reproduction. To do this, remember the following.

First, gooseberries should be regularly fed with complex mixtures. Then he will receive 100% protection from attacks from pests and, in particular, aphids. Secondly, the gooseberry bush must be pruned regularly. Because only in this way he will receive the maximum amount of nutrients. Thirdly, all leaves fallen from the bush should be promptly removed from the area around the plant. And burn them. And the bushes should be very carefully huddled so that the soil is ventilated.

Anthills that are on the site must be removed and destroyed immediately. Since ants and aphids are eternal allies that can destroy huge territories of personal plots.

Thus, you can get rid of aphids on gooseberries. But, it is best to take preventive measures so that the shrubs, in principle, do not become infected with it. Sometimes the process of treating a shrub can be very delayed. And if you do not start it on time, then this will generally lead to the fact that the bush will simply die. Much depends, of course, on the vigilance of the gardener himself. But if he wants a healthy bush and a bountiful harvest, he must always keep in mind the importance of controlling and caring for the plants.