Big Bud Mite - Blackcurrants - Black Currants - and Corylus - Hazels - Cobnuts.

This is best seen in mid-winter on both Blackcurrants and Hazels, with the affected buds being swollen and rounded - rather than the norm of pointed buds. (Black Currants more noticeable than Hazel - Cobnuts).

The Big Bud Mite is itself microscopic, entering the healthy buds in summer, then feed upon the sap in the healthy bud, causing the visible effect of the big rounded buds. These buds normally fail to open in the spring. A further problem, is the possibility of the Big Bud Mite carrying the Reversion Virus which is not treatable.

Control with small numbers of enlarged buds is simply by picking off the affected buds and burning. With badly affected plants, the whole bush should be removed and consigned to the fire.

Here the rounded abnormal buds are clearly seen. They should be picked off individually in winter - ensuring that none are dropped, and burned. The Big Buds are caused by Galling.