Autumn sprays for the control of aphids in blackcurrant autumn

A single spray of an aphicide in late September or early October will give a high degree, though not complete, control of the main aphid pests of blackcurrant. Logically, it could be expected that more persistent systemic aphicides, such as thiacloprid (Calypso) are likely to give the best results if only a single application is made and this conclusion is more or less supported by these results. The Rothamsted Insect Survey aphid suction trap records for currant sowthistle aphid could be helpful in timing of sprays.

The overall aim of the work was to determine whether commercially acceptable control of the most common and damaging aphids in commercial blackcurrant production in the UK can be adequately achieved by autumn application of aphicides.