Fungal
Cane Blight
A fungal disease of raspberry and blackberry canes causing dark lesions at the base of laterals, wilting of fruiting shoots, and cane death.
Symptoms to Look For
- Dark purple or brown lesions at the base of fruiting laterals in summer
- Sudden wilting and death of fruiting laterals with leaves drying on the cane
- Bark splitting and darkening on infected canes when pressed
Affected Plants
RaspberryBlackberryLoganberry
Organic Solutions
Remove infected canes
Cut out and burn all infected canes immediately at the base, disinfecting secateurs between cuts.
Copper spray
Apply copper fungicide to canes at bud burst and again after harvest to protect fresh wound sites from spore entry.
Prevention
- Avoid injury to canes when tying in or training as wounds are the primary infection point
- Space canes widely and remove old canes promptly after fruiting to improve airflow
Garden, by Willowbottom recommends only organic, wildlife-friendly solutions. No synthetic pesticides, no harmful chemicals - ever.