Raspberry Beetle Raspberry Fruitworm

You will notice beetle damages black raspberry and hybrid berry crops in Western Washington, with adults feeding on buds and unfolding leaves in spring, leaving distinctive slits in leaf tissue. Larvae subsequently enter developing fruit and feed internally, causing shriveled berries with brown discolored areas. The entire development from egg to larval exit takes over 30 days, overlapping with ripening period.

Monitor canes in late April and May for adult feeding damage. Remove wilted canes several inches below injury sites to eliminate larvae. Maintain vigorous plants through proper irrigation. Commercial growers can use timed insecticide at early flower and petal-fall to reduce fruit infestation.