Will aphids kill my redcurrant?

Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and reduce your fruit yield. It is best to treat them early before they cause significant leaf curling.

Can I eat the fruit if I have aphids?

Yes, just wash the fruit thoroughly in cool water before eating. The aphids do not harm the fruit itself.

Why are there bugs on my redcurrant bush? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny insects or orange spots.
Check the tips of new growth for curling or sticky residue.
Look for ants, as they often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the soft new growth. They cause the leaves to curl and become sticky with a substance called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Currant Rust
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but it usually happens due to high humidity or poor air circulation. You will notice bright orange, powdery spots appearing on the undersides of the leaves.
What to do: Remove and destroy all infected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant by pruning back crowded branches and avoid overhead watering.

Find out what's wrong with your redcurrant

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

You should worry if the infestation covers more than half the plant or if the leaves begin to drop prematurely. A few insects are normal and rarely threaten the life of a healthy bush.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your bush healthy with proper spacing to ensure good airflow and monitor the leaves weekly during the growing season.

Keep your redcurrant healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will aphids kill my redcurrant?: Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and reduce your fruit yield. It is best to treat them early before they cause significant leaf curling.
Can I eat the fruit if I have aphids?: Yes, just wash the fruit thoroughly in cool water before eating. The aphids do not harm the fruit itself.

Why are there bugs on my redcurrant bush?