Slugs, snails, June beetle larva, spider mites, sowbugs, nematodes, fungal and bacterial diseases and even viruses can affect strawberries.
June Beetle Larva
The larva of the June beetle (Phyllophaga crinita) is a white grub with brown, reddish brown or black head about three quarters of an inch long. Their bodies are “c”shaped. They feed on the roots of strawberries, generally starting with the weaker plants.
Spider Mites
These are close relatives of spiders and there area number of genus and species. These are tiny arthropods, just barely visible to the human eye. They can heavily populate the leaves of strawberry plants. A good hard spray of water can dislodge them. If they are dislodged from a leaf and are sent to the ground, since they are so small, it takes them a long, long time to re-ascend to the leaf. Even though the water doesn’t kill them, it seriously discourages them.
Snails, Slugs, Pill Bugs (also known as Sowbugs)
These animals love to dwell in organic mulches. Use organic baits (either those commercially produced or homemade baits such as jar caps filled with beer) to attract and kill these animals.
Nematodes
These are microscopic worms that can cause plants to become stunted. There are organic controls available to kill nematodes. In sandy soils, the dagger nematode (Xiphinema americanum) is mostly responsible for plant stunting. Adding organic matter should have some effect on these animals.
Verticillium Wilt
This is a fungus that is common in all soils. It causes leaves of the strawberry plant to dry out. It starts around the edges of the leaves and then extends to between the veins. New leaves are stunted. The best solution for Verticillium wilt is to use strawberry plants that are resistant to it.
Gray Mold
High humidity and little or no air movement around the leaves of the plants can create conditions favorable for gray mold fungus. The mold spreads through spores, and leaves, fruit and even flowers will become infected if they touch the ground or come in contact with an infected part. Prune out leaves if the foliage becomes too heavy and restricts air flow. Use nitrogen fertilizer, but only after spring harvest. Mulch will also help keep the plant leaves, fruit and stems separated from the ground.
Black Root Rot
This is also a fungal disease that is carried in the soil. It causes reduction in fruit production and generally weaker, less robust plants. Lest alone, it will eventually cause root rot. Rotating crops, and using a balanced, organic fertilizer help control this disease.
Red Stele
If your soil is heavy and poorly drained, the chances are greater that red stele is present. Symptoms are the inner core of roots turn red, and leaves are off color. Plants infected with red stele will quickly die during hot summers. Add organic compost and sand to soil to allow it to drain more easily.
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