Can I just pick them off?

If the infestation is small, yes. For larger colonies, a spray is much more effective.

Will aphids hurt the fruit?

They primarily target the leaves and stems, but a heavy infestation can reduce the overall vigor of the plant and fruit production.

European dewberry: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look at the tips of new shoots for clusters of bugs.
Check for sticky residue on the leaves.
Examine the undersides of leaves for webbing.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the undersides of leaves or on new buds. They leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Blast the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your hose. If they persist, spray the plant with insecticidal soap every 5 days.
Spider mites
Possible
How to tell: Look for fine webbing between leaves and tiny yellow stippling on the leaf surface. These pests thrive in hot, dry conditions.
What to do: Increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. Use neem oil to treat the infestation if the webbing continues to spread.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european dewberry

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

Worry if the new growth looks stunted or curled. A few aphids are normal, but a full colony will drain the plant's energy.

Stopping it coming back

Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs to visit your garden. Keep the plant well watered to reduce stress.

European dewberry: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european dewberry and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I just pick them off?: If the infestation is small, yes. For larger colonies, a spray is much more effective.
Will aphids hurt the fruit?: They primarily target the leaves and stems, but a heavy infestation can reduce the overall vigor of the plant and fruit production.

What are these bugs on my European dewberry?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your european dewberry?

Likely causes

Aphid infestation

Spider mites

Find out what's wrong with your european dewberry

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

European dewberry: pests? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with European dewberry