Knowledgebase
current bush pest? #875932
Asked July 04, 2024, 1:59 PM EDT
I have a wild currant bush that looks like it has a pest infestation, possibly currant fruit fly? I'll attach a photo. It doesn't look quite like the images I see online. The berries are oily/sticky also. Can you identify what is happening and how to remediate?
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hello!
Based on what I can see in the photograph, I think that you do not have a currant bush there, rather it is a three-leaf (aka skunkbrush) sumac, a native shrub. The fruits certainly have some cottonwood fluff on them; it's a bit tough to say if I can also see the cast molts of aphids, which could be there to take advantage of the growing fruits.
You can take no action (the long-term risk to the plant is nil), or consider washing the fruits with a strong jet of water to remove any aphids, if they are indeed present.
I hope this helps!
Cordially,
John
Thank you!