How to treat blackcurrants against ticks in autumn? - briefly
Apply a horticultural acaricide approved for fruit shrubs in late September, covering foliage and stems completely and pruning away any infested shoots. Follow the product label for correct dosage and repeat the application after two weeks if tick pressure remains.
How to treat blackcurrants against ticks in autumn? - in detail
Effective control of tick infestations on blackcurrant vines during the autumn period requires a combination of cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical measures applied in a systematic sequence.
First, remove all fallen leaves, fruit, and pruning debris from the planting area. This eliminates overwintering sites and reduces the initial population that can re‑emerge in the spring. Collect the material in sealed bags and dispose of it by burning or deep burial.
Second, conduct a thorough inspection of each cane after leaf fall. Look for signs of tick activity, such as small, moving specks on bark or leaf scars. Record the location and severity of each finding to prioritize treatment zones.
Third, apply a dormant oil spray to the entire canopy. Use a horticultural oil concentration of 1–2 % v/v, applied in late October when temperatures remain above 5 °C and no rain is forecast for 24 hours. The oil suffocates the ticks and any eggs present on the surface.
Fourth, introduce predatory mites (e.g., Neoseiulus californicus) into heavily infested rows. Release rates of 100–150 adults per square meter, followed by a second application after two weeks, help suppress the tick population biologically.
Fifth, if monitoring indicates persistent pressure, employ a targeted acaricide. Choose a product registered for blackcurrant use, such as a sulfur‑based formulation, and apply at the label‑recommended dose. Rotate the active ingredient with any previous treatments to prevent resistance buildup.
Sixth, after the first frost, perform a final sanitation sweep. Cut back any canes that show severe damage, and treat the cut surfaces with a copper‑based protectant to deter secondary infections that could attract ticks later.
Finally, establish an annual schedule that repeats the above steps each autumn. Document dates, products used, and observed outcomes to refine the program over successive seasons.