What's attacking this Plum - any ideas?

[kevinjohnsonmbe]

Bugs and beasties not my favourite thing, any ideas what this bug is, if it might be the culprit for the leaf damage and how to tackle it?

 

Thanks in advance.....

[Roz]

Could it be a ladybird beetle larvae...?????

[kevinjohnsonmbe]

Just looked at some images Roz. I'd say yes, that one is, thanks for the pointer!!

 

The question I have to answer is - is that the cause of the problem or was it just a random find which just happened to be on that leaf I picked. I'll have another look tomorrow and see if I can find more on the other areas / leaves.

 

[peatff]

Just looked at some images Roz. I'd say yes, that one is, thanks for the pointer!!

 

The question I have to answer is - is that the cause of the problem or was it just a random find which just happened to be on that leaf I picked. I'll have another look tomorrow and see if I can find more on the other areas / leaves.

 

 

The ladybird larva is there because it is finding lots of aphids (which are the cause of the problem) to eat. Let them get on with it.

[kevinjohnsonmbe]

The ladybird larva is there because it is finding lots of aphids (which are the cause of the problem) to eat. Let them get on with it.

 

 

I don't know the (short) history of the tree, apparently it has never fruited well, don't know if it's just a bad year for aphid or if it's a regular occurrence. Never been pruned so planning a restorative prune to start a frame and a light top dressing see if it lifts its spirit next Spring. Thanks for info 👍🏻

[Roz]

I think it has been a bad year for aphids, have a young Quince which I have had to spray with a strong soapy solution several times to get rid of the little blighters (not a fan of pesticide unless really required).

[daltontrees]

I think it has been a bad year for aphids, have a young Quince which I have had to spray with a strong soapy solution several times to get rid of the little blighters (not a fan of pesticide unless really required).

 

Could you please say just how soapy the solution was? Did you use a detergent or a soap?