Blueberry Shoestring

Damage

New and one-year-old stems show red streaks, 3-20 mm long, more on the side of the stem exposed to the sun. Leaves are elongated and strap-like (shoestring appearance), and may be reddish in colour. Blossoms have reddish streaks. Berries are reddish purple instead of blue. Yield is reduced.

Disease

BSSV is spread by the blueberry aphid, Illinoia pepperii, which is not present in BC. The virus has a latency period of 4 years before infected bushes show symptoms.