Thoroughly check the raspberries. At the base of the stems in the upper layer of soil, adult larvae of the shoot gall midge often winter, while the larvae of the stem gall midge may be found inside galls on the plant stems.
When identifying these pests, try to get rid of them before the raspberries bloom and adult mosquitoes appear.
When pruning branches, pay attention to their inner part, where caterpillars of the currant glassy moth may be hiding. Remove damaged branches down to the base, leaving no stumps.
If the tips of the raspberry branches are affected by powdery mildew, cut them back to healthy parts and burn them along with the unfolding leaves.
Spore of other fungal diseases, such as anthracnose and some types of spotting, may winter in the tips of the branches. Raspberry stems and buds are often affected by purple spotting. Upon detection before the buds open, spray the bushes with a 5% urea solution.
