Cane Die-Back in Raspberry
Raspberries are cane fruits producing sweet berries in summer or autumn. The tips of canes or stems die progressively downwards, caused by fungal disease, frost damage, or physical injury.
Raspberry care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to cane die-back in Raspberry. Check each one as a potential cause.
Symptoms to look for in Raspberry
- fiber_manual_recordBrown, dead tips on canes that spread downwards over time
- fiber_manual_recordDark discolouration or lesions at the base of dying sections
- fiber_manual_recordShrivelled, papery bark on affected canes
- fiber_manual_recordHealthy growth lower on the same plant
Common causes in Raspberry
- fiber_manual_recordFungal pathogens entering through pruning wounds or cracks
- fiber_manual_recordFrost damage killing exposed cane tips
- fiber_manual_recordPhysical damage creating entry points for disease
- fiber_manual_recordPoor drainage causing stress and disease susceptibility
- fiber_manual_recordBotrytis (grey mould) infection
How to diagnose cane die-back in Raspberry
Cut into the dying cane — if the internal tissue is brown or discoloured it confirms die-back. If it is white or green, the cause may be surface only.
How to treat cane die-back in Raspberry
Prune affected canes back to healthy, white-pith tissue, cutting to just above a bud. Sterilise pruning tools between cuts with rubbing alcohol. Dispose of infected material — do not compost it. Apply a wound sealant on large cuts.
Preventing cane die-back in Raspberry
Always prune to just above a bud to minimise exposed tissue. Sterilise tools before pruning. Avoid pruning just before frost. Ensure good drainage and air circulation.