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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. |
