Can I eat the berries if I have aphids?

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

Will the cane borer kill my whole plant?

Usually no, it only affects the specific cane it tunnels into. Pruning the damaged part promptly keeps the rest of the plant healthy.

Black raspberry: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the tips of the canes for wilting.
Look under the leaves for small clusters of insects.
Check for sticky residue on the foliage.

Likely causes

Raspberry Cane Borer
Most likely
How to tell: You will see the tips of the canes wilt and droop suddenly. Look for two rings of punctures around the cane below the wilted section.
What to do: Prune the affected cane several inches below the lower ring of punctures. Dispose of the cut piece in the trash immediately to prevent the larvae from moving further down. Do not compost the infested material.
Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: Small green or black insects cluster on the undersides of leaves and new growth. They cause leaves to curl and leave behind a sticky residue.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week until the population disappears.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black raspberry

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 cane borer symptoms appear on multiple canes, as this can stunt fruit production. A few aphids are normal, but heavy infestations require quick action.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around your plants free of weeds and debris to reduce hiding spots. Prune out old, dead canes in late winter to remove overwintering sites.

Black raspberry: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black raspberry 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 eat the berries if I have aphids?: Yes, just wash the berries thoroughly in cool water before eating. The aphids do not harm the fruit itself.
Will the cane borer kill my whole plant?: Usually no, it only affects the specific cane it tunnels into. Pruning the damaged part promptly keeps the rest of the plant healthy.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my black raspberry plant?