cotton like buds on my blackcurrant - what are they?

[kerryp]

Hi, My blackcurrant seems to have buds that look a bit like cotton wool is coming out of them. Does anyone know what this is? Ive got a feeling its a disease because we havent really had any new groth this year & a poor yield of fruit ( If it is what should i do? (sorry not taken a pic but each time i remember its too late in the night!)

Thanks
Kerry

[VirginVegGrower]

Big bud mite possibly. Can you get a photo up? Be easier to diagnose then.

[kerryp]

funny you should ask that... when we had a break in the rain today i ran out & took a pic! some of them seem to have disappeared now but found this one that looked bit squashed now....

what you think?

[Jeanied]

Woolly aphid. Here is a link to some information.

[kerryp]

im still not sure as it doesnt seem to be insects of any sort which that info seems to suggest.... will take a closer look tomorrow. thanks!

[kerryp]

although looking at that photo it look exactly like their sample pics.... hmmmm secateurs (spelling?) at the ready tomorrow if its not still raining!

[VirginVegGrower]

Looks like spur blight to me. As this is not coming out of the bud looks unlikely to be big bud mite.