Big bud mite: buds of bushes are swollen and no longer germinate. The Big bud mite is responsible for this.
Also known as:
Blackcurrant gall mite
Big bud mite – buds of bushes are swollen and no longer germinate. The Big bud mite is responsible for this:
– On Currant species: Cecidophyopsis ribis
– On yew: Cecidophyopsis psilapsis
– On hazel: Phytoptus avellanae
Deformed shoots (yew), reduced growth in currants and hazel.
Inside the buds are microscopic, white mites. Often accompanied by equally minute larvae and eggs. The mites hibernate in the buds; in spring, the adult mites spread over the plant’s new buds.
The Big bud mite can transmit Blackcurrant reversion virus on Currant species. This virus, belonging to the nepoviruses, deforms the leaf so that the middle lobe grows longer and the leaf edges are more coarsely toothed. This makes the affected leaf look like a nettle leaf. This virus makes currants infertile. Control is not possible; affected shrubs must be uprooted and destroyed.
Where to find
- Red currant
- Currant, gooseberry, black currant
- Hazel
- Yew (Taxus)
Control
Prune branches with affected buds.
Prevention
Early spring budding of currants and hazels prevents infestation by Big bud mites.
