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Produce => Pests & Diseases => Topic started by: undercarriage plan on July 02, 2005, 21:19:23

Title: Bit sad....
Post by: undercarriage plan on July 02, 2005, 21:19:23

I know, been spouting off about getting kids to squish caterpillars.  But they weren''t available! Went to lottie today, and my gooseberry bushes have been stripped of leaves in a matter of days  :'( :'( :'(.  Fantastic crop of gooseberries though, just feel sad for plants.  Any idea what the culprit is???? Thanks Lottie

Title: Re: Bit sad....
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on July 02, 2005, 23:24:26

I bet it's goseberry sawfly caterpillars. http://www.hdra.org.uk/factsheets/pc3.htm

Title: Re: Bit sad....
Post by: undercarriage plan on July 04, 2005, 14:36:04

Thanks Robert, you're right. It was those little *******!! However, I must have an awful infestation, the bushes are dessimated, surprised the birds haven't picked them off? Going back, gloves in hnd to do some major squishing!!!  ;D ;D Lotttie

Title: Re: Bit sad....
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on July 04, 2005, 16:40:58

I've had my bushes eaten alive before now; the good news is that they soon recover.

Title: Re: Bit sad....
Post by: undercarriage plan on July 04, 2005, 20:31:15

SO if I don't get all the little ****** the bush will be OK next season? There are so many, doubt if I could get half of them!! Had a marvellous crop this year, gooseberry fool for tea!!!  Lottie  ;D

Title: Re: Bit sad....
Post by: Icyberjunkie on July 07, 2005, 19:53:20

....and did you note lottie the fact that you have to stick your hand down inside the bush early on.  A gooseberry bush!!!!  NO chance - I like my skin where it is..... :-\

Title: Re: Bit sad....
Post by: undercarriage plan on July 07, 2005, 20:14:31

Ha ha!! To be honest, I'm such a gooseberry junkie, and so frantic to get at them I don't even notice!! However, when squishing, which I don't like, noticed...!!! My arms have looked more attractive!! Lottie  ;D