Gooseberry Sawfly
Pest · Commonly affects: Gooseberry, Redcurrant, Whitecurrant, Blackcurrant, Jostaberry, Worcesterberry
Gooseberry sawfly is a fast-moving pest of gooseberries and currants. Its hungry larvae can strip a bush surprisingly quickly, sometimes leaving bare stems after a few days of feeding. Prompt checks from mid-spring are especially worthwhile, as catching the first generation protects both the current crop and the plant's strength for next year.
How to identify it
The larvae resemble caterpillars but are pale green with rows of black spots, black heads and many pairs of fleshy prolegs. They grow to roughly 18-25 mm. They commonly feed together on leaf undersides, beginning in the centre of the bush where they are easily missed. Adult sawflies are small, wasp-like insects, about 6-8 mm long, but the larvae and rapidly disappearing foliage are the clearest signs.
Damage
Larvae eat leaves from the edges and between veins, rapidly reducing bushes to stems and leaf ribs. Defoliated plants may still produce some fruit, but berries are often smaller and the bush has less energy to make next season's buds. Repeated attacks weaken gooseberries and currants, increasing their sensitivity to drought and winter stress.
Prevention
Inspect bushes weekly from mid-spring, paying particular attention to the shaded centre and lower leaves. Prune annually to keep an open framework, making larvae easier to spot and allowing birds access. Clear fallen leaves and weeds from beneath bushes after harvest. Avoid placing gooseberries and currants in dry, cramped sites, and keep plants watered in dry spells so they recover strongly from any light feeding.
How to manage it
Hand-pick or gently shake larvae into a container of soapy water as soon as they appear, checking again every few days. Remove badly damaged leaves and any pupae found in surface debris. Netting can exclude some birds, so uncover plants regularly if possible and provide nearby habitat for insect-eating wildlife. After defoliation, water the bush during dry weather and mulch with garden compost to support regrowth.
Gooseberry Sawfly: frequently asked questions
How do I identify gooseberry sawfly?
The larvae resemble caterpillars but are pale green with rows of black spots, black heads and many pairs of fleshy prolegs.
How do I prevent gooseberry sawfly?
Inspect bushes weekly from mid-spring, paying particular attention to the shaded centre and lower leaves.
How do I get rid of gooseberry sawfly?
Hand-pick or gently shake larvae into a container of soapy water as soon as they appear, checking again every few days.
General guidance for UK home gardens and allotments, focused on prevention and non-chemical control. For a confirmed diagnosis, the RHS or a local garden centre can help. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.