About 60% of my raspberries are only partially formed or are distorted and show uneven ripening. There also caterpillars in many fruits. How can this be prevented?

Hi Bob, your raspberry plants may have dry berry which is caused by downy mildew, it can be common with raspberries. Treat the plants with a fungal spray registered to eliminate the problem.

The caterpillars are likely to be raspberry bud moth. Prune canes in early autumn, tip any canes that show caterpillar damage, this will stop the caterpillar moving down the stem to the flower buds. Remove debris, fallen leaves, canes and prunings from autumn and burn or throw out in the rubbish to prevent any overwintering caterpillars surviving. It is hard to control when it burrows into the fruit buds. You can check at your local garden centre for a suitable caterpillar spray, however it will need to come into contact with the caterpillar to control it.