Hard, green raspberry fruit

11 years ago

I'm wondering if what I think is the problem with my raspberries is likely the case for my location -- Skagit County in Western Washington. I'm thinking it's tarnished plant bug.

I had superb blossoms on the canes, but now maybe only 1 berry in every other cluster is ripening. Most of the fruits are tiny, hard and green.

Web search of photos show fruit damage from that bug that seems consistent with what I see. (No digital camera, sorry!) And my raspberries are near a tall-grass meadow, which is over-wintering habitat for the bug.

Is it a problem on raspberries in W. Wash.?

What should I do? Thanks!

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Comments (3)

gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
11 years ago
According to the PNW Insect Management Handbook, it can be. And especially if your plants are bordered by a weedy pasture or natural grass-filled area. There are some natural predatory controls - you might have to look online for them and most sources state that control by beneficials is limited at best. Otherwise carbaryl (Sevin) or the pyrethrins (or their synthetic derivatives) are registered for control.
nwhorthappy
Original Author
11 years ago
Thank you! I will research more into the pyrethrin option. I also fantasize setting up a big electric blower and blowing the bugs away during the vulnerable time!

Has anyone else had experience in dealing with TPB, tarnished plant bug (Lygus sp.)?
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oliveoyl3
11 years ago
My 1st thought was summer watering needed. Mulch helps reduce the need.

If watering has been consistent here are some other resources:

Small Fruit Pests: Biology, Diagnosis and Management
http://cru.cahe.wsu.edu/CEPublications/eb1388/eb1388.pdf

I hope you discover & correct the problem. Raspberries are delicious!

Here is a link that might be useful: WSU publication on small fruits