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Identifying aphids on Blueberry
Small green or black insects clustered on new shoot tips and the undersides of young leaves, often with curled or distorted new growth nearby.
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Life cycle
Reproduce rapidly without mating in spring/summer. One female can produce 80+ offspring per week. Multiple generations per year.
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Damage to Blueberry
Aphids sap-suck on tender new growth, causing curled leaves and stunted shoots, and can transmit blueberry shock virus in some regions, making early control important.
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How to treat aphids on Blueberry
Spray forcefully with water to dislodge aphids, or apply insecticidal soap for persistent infestations. Encourage ladybirds and lacewings in the growing area.
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Preventing aphids on Blueberry
Inspect new growth regularly in spring, and avoid excessive nitrogen fertiliser, which produces the soft growth aphids prefer.