Other diseases found on main crop raspberries can also be found on autumn raspberries. Botrytis infects only through dead or dying tissue. Flowers opening in late December and continuing through the season leave many dead and decaying parts on the plant for infection to occur. Berries damaged by wind can also be infected. The Botrytis fungus produces many spores, which are blown about in the air.
Fungal growth is favoured by warm temperatures and high relative humidity.
Good spray coverage and timing is essential, to ensure effective control of pests and diseases before flowering starts. Spray schedules are available from New Zealand Berryfruit Growers Federation. Harvesting Over the lengthy harvesting season, only a small proportion of the crop is picked on any one day. Fruit is picked early in the morning, after dew has evaporated, but before hot daytime temperatures occur. Berries are harvested by hand into small containers, carried on waist belts by pickers.