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Dry, Crumbly Raspberries #875087

Asked June 28, 2024, 11:17 AM EDT

Good Morning, I am in Hinesburg and have a decent crop of raspberries that were planted 6 to 8 years ago. For the past several years, the fruit become more and more deformed and crumbly. The canes are strong and continue to spread. Very close by I have black raspberries that were planted at the same time. They are still producing fine. Would love to know what is causing this issue with my raspberries and if there is anything that can be done.

Chittenden County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello Diane, 

Thank you for reaching out to the EMG helpline! Sorry to hear you've been having trouble with your raspberries.

Viruses are common in raspberries. For example, there is a common virus called raspberry bushy dwarf virus that is transmitted by pollinators. According to this information from the Oregon Extension office, a plant remains infected once it has been infected. The only solution is to remove the plant. You could try planting new plants in another area of your property. 

https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/ec-1306-growing-raspberries-your-home-garden

A few other tips from this article include checking your property for infected wild raspberries and making sure garden tools are sterilized to avoid contamination. There may be some varieties available that have resistance to the virus. 

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/raspberry/raspberry-bushy-dwarf-virus.htm

Happy Gardening, Jessica, UVM Extension Master Gardener Programwww.uvm.edu/extension/mastergardenerWe do not intend to endorse any products we mention or criticize products we do not mention. When we include a link to a resource that recommends a chemical, it is for informational purposes only; the chemicals may not be registered for use in Vermont.  Replied June 30, 2024, 11:10 AM EDT

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