5.3 Fruiting Years

5.3.1 EARLY SPRING

5.3.1.1 Twospotted Spider Mite

Refer to information given under Summer months after planting (section 5.2.1.1).

5.3.1.2 Bud Weevil (Clipper)

Symptoms- Adults puncture blossom buds while feeding in the spring, deposit eggs in the nearly mature buds, and then girdle the bud so that it hangs by a mere thread or falls to the ground. Injury is most likely along edges of fields or when strawberries are grown next to woodlots or other sites suitable for adult hibernation.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

Frequent scouting for bud cutting is important in areas where weevil pressure is expected to be high. In the past, a treatment threshold of 1 cut bud per linear foot has been recommended. Research conducted in the last few years, however, suggests that plants can sustain many times this pressure without a measurable reduction in yield if clipping occurs on tertiary flower buds. The new threshold is more than one primary or secondary flower bud or more than two tertiary flower buds per truss, or more than one injured truss per foot of row.

Resistant cultivars

None known, although ‘Seneca’ and ‘Jewel’ strongly compensate for insect injury.

Cultural management

A.    Mulches and full-canopy beds may encourage newly emerged adults to remain in the planting so that damage increases in succeeding years.

B.    Using cropping systems shorter than 3 years, plowing under all old beds immediately after final harvest, and removing foliage and mulch to reduce the suitability of overwintering sites help lessen the chances of clipper injury.

Conventional products

The timing of pesticide applications is extremely critical. Treatment must take place when blossom buds first become visible in the crown and the temperature approaches 65° F. Since clipper weevils move into the fields from the wooded edges, border sprays may be effective for control in new plantings, or in older plantings without previous infestations. Do not treat outside of the strawberry fields as this use is not labeled.

A.    chlorpyrifos- Lorsban 4EC (2 pt/A). OR

B.    *bifenthrin- *Brigade WSB (6.4 – 32.0 oz/A). OR

C.    *fenpropathin- *Danitol EC (16 fl oz/A).

Note: Do not apply *Brigade or *Danitol within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes.

*Danitol has a maximum single application rate of 0.3 lb AI per acre and a maximum seasonal application of 0.6 lb AI per acre.)

Organic products

None known.

5.3.1.3 Leaf Spot

Symptoms- Initial lesions on leaves begin as small, irregularly shaped purple spots. Mature lesions become approximately one eighth to one quarter inch in diameter, remain relatively round, and the centers of lesions turn from a purplish brown to grayish white. The pathogen primarily infects young, expanding leaves and petioles, and occasionally fruit (black seed). Heavy leaf infections can inhibit the production of flower buds for the following year, predispose a plant to winter injury, and provide inoculum for infection of the fruit caps.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

Resistance and tolerance has been reported for several cultivars. However, reports from different states are often in conflict with one another; hence resistance/tolerance may be variable and/or region dependent. A consensus of reports suggests that ‘Jewel’, ‘Canoga’, ‘Cardinal’, and ‘Lester’, have some resistance, and that ‘Tristar’ and ‘Tribute’ are susceptible but tolerant of infection. Fungicide sprays, as recommended, may be necessary only on more susceptible varieties.

Cultural management

A.    Destroying infected leaves at renovation (e.g., mowing and burying) will reduce the amount of carry-over inoculum.

B.    Promoting air circulation (plant spacing and weed control) will decrease foliage drying time and limit infection periods.

Conventional products

An early season fungicide application is recommended primarily when carry-over inoculum from the previous year is high or conditions are favorable for disease development.

A.    captan- Captan 50WP (3 - 6 lb/A) or Captec 4L (1.5 - 3 qt/100gal water) or other captan. OR

B.    myclobutanil- Rally 40WSP (2.5 - 5.0 oz/A). Do not exceed 30 oz/A of Rally 40WSP per growing season. OR

C.    pyraclostrobin- Cabrio EG (12 - 14 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Cabrio before alternating with another product with a different mode of action. Apply no more than five applications of Cabrio per season. OR

D.    pyraclostrobin/boscalid- Pristine WG (18.5 – 23.0 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Pristine before alternating with another product with a different mode of action. Apply no more than five applications of Pristine per season. OR

E.    copper- several formulations are labeled. Follow labeled rates.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    copper hydroxide- Nu Cop 50 WP or Nu Cop 50DF (2 - 3 lb/A). Begin applications after plants are established and continue at weekly intervals throughout season. Use higher rate when conditions favor disease. Discontinue use if signs of phytotoxicity appear. OR

B.    copper sulfate- Basic Copper 53 (2-3 lb/A). Begin applications after new leaves form. Repeat at 10-14 day intervals.

5.3.1.5 Leaf Blight

Symptoms- Lesions begin as small, circular to irregular, reddish, or purplish spots. As they expand, lesion centers become necrotic and turn light brown with a dark purple halo. Older lesions along major leaf veins develop into large V-shaped lesions that eventually kill the leaf. Heavy leaf infections can inhibit the production of flower buds for the following year, predispose a plant to winter injury, and provide inoculum for infection of the fruit caps.

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

There are no reports of cultivar resistance to leaf blight.

Cultural management

A.   Destroying infected leaves at renovation (e.g., mowing and burying) will reduce the amount of carry-over inoculum.

B.   Promoting air circulation (plant spacing and weed control) will reduce foliage drying time and limit infection periods.

Conventional products

An early season application is recommended primarily when carry-over inoculum from the previous year is high or conditions are favorable for disease development.

A.   thiophanate-methyl- Topsin-M 70WP (0.75 – 1.0 lb/A). If using Topsin-M, tank mix with a copper fungicide for resistance management. OR

B.   copper- Several formulations are labeled. Follow labeled rates.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    copper hydroxide- Nu Cop 50 WP or Nu Cop 50DF (2 - 3 lb/A). Begin applications after plants are established and continue at weekly intervals throughout season. Use higher rate when conditions favor disease. Discontinue use if signs of phytotoxicity appear.

5.3.2 PREBLOOM

5.3.2.1 Bud Weevil (Clipper)

Refer to information given under Early spring (section 5.3.1.2).

5.3.2.2 Tarnished Plant Bug

Symptoms- This pest causes “cat faced” or “button” berries. It damages the fruit by feeding on the flower buds; the berries in the immediate area stop developing. Little information is available on cultivar differences in susceptibility to tarnished plant bug, but early maturity is correlated with freedom from injury; later cultivars may suffer more damage.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

Anytime from just before the blossoms open until harvest, check for tarnished plant bug nymphs by striking the plant over a flat, low-sided, light-colored dish. Suggested action threshold: 0.5 nymphs per cluster, or 4 out of 15 clusters with 1 or more nymphs.

Resistant cultivars

‘Honeoye’ is less susceptible to feeding injury than other cultivars.

Cultural management

A.    Row covers accelerate development and help avoid injury.

B.    Tarnished plant bug pressure is often highest in weedy fields or in fields bordered by woody shrubs.

Conventional products

A.    malathion- Malathion 57 EC (1.5 – 3.0 pt/A). Malathion may be used up to 3 days before harvest. OR

B.    naled- *Dibrom 8EC (1 pt/A). OR

C.    pyrethrin- Pyrenone crop spray 0.5EC (2 - 12 oz/A). OR

D.    *bifenthrin- *Brigade WSB (16 - 32 oz/A). OR

E.    *fenpropathin- *Danitol EC (10.67 fl oz/A). OR

F.    acetamiprid- Assail SG (4.0 - 6.9 oz/A).

Note: Do not apply *Brigade or *Danitol within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes.

*Danitol has a maximum single application rate of 0.3 lb AI per acre and a maximum seasonal application of 0.6 lb AI per acre.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    pyrethrin- PyGanic 1.4 EC_II (16 – 64 fl. oz/A) or PyGanic 5.0 EC_II (4.5 – 18.0 fl. oz/A).

5.3.2.3 Spittlebug

Symptoms- White frothy masses on the stems and leaves around the time of bloom harbor the nymphs, which pierce the stems and suck plant juices. Their feeding, if extensive, can stunt the plants and reduce berry size. Leaves appear crinkled and darker green than undamaged leaves. The spittle masses are a great nuisance to pickers.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

One mass per square ft of row.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

A.    Good weed control may help to reduce numbers. Populations are usually largest in weedy fields.

B.    Only one generation is produced per year. The leaves recover after the insects leave.

Conventional products

A.    *endosulfan- several products; rates depend on formulation. OR

B.    *bifenthrin- *Brigade WSB (16 - 32 oz/A). OR

C.    *fenpropathin- *Danitol 2.4 EC (10.67 fl oz/A). OR

D.    *imidacloprid- *Provado 1.6F (3.8 fl oz/A) or *Pasada 1.6 (3.75 fl oz/A). OR

E.    acetamidprid- Assail SG (1.9 - 4.0 oz/A).

Note: Do not apply *Brigade or *Danitol within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes.

*Danitol has a maximum single application rate of 0.3 lb AI per acre and a maximum seasonal application of 0.6 lb AI per acre.

Organic products

None known.

5.3.3 EARLY BLOOM (10-20% of flower buds open)

5.3.3.1 Gray Mold (Botrytis Fruit Rot)

Symptoms- Botrytis fruit rot usually begins at the blossom end or when a berry is touching another infected berry. The infected portion is firm and brown while the berry is still green, but it expands and softens as the fruit ripens. A powdery gray mass of spores covers infected berries if the weather remains humid and/or air circulation is poor.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known. Less severely impacted cultivars are ‘Earliglow’, ‘Jewel’ and ‘Clancy’. ‘Allstar’ and ‘Sable’ are very susceptible.

Cultural management

A.    Disease control is greatly aided by controlling weeds and by using other practices that promote good air circulation and rapid drying of the fruit such as regulating plant density.

B.    Spring applications of nitrogen can dramatically increase the potential for infection.

Conventional products

Protection of blossoms is critical in gray mold management. Research in New York has consistently shown that excellent gray mold control can be obtained with just two fungicide sprays applied at early bloom and 10 days later. Continued protection of fruit prior to harvest may be necessary during prolonged periods of wet, foggy, or humid weather.

A.    fenhexamid- Elevate (1.5 lb/A). Elevate is the most effective bloom spray. Do not apply more than two consecutive sprays of Elevate. OR

B.    captan/fenhexamid- Captevate 68WDG (3.5 - 5.25 lb/A). Do not apply more than 21 lb/A Captevate per season. When plastic mulch is used, do not apply Captevate within 15 feet of natural vegetation or aquatic areas. OR

C.    captan- Captan 50WP (3 - 6 lb/A) or Captan 80WDG (1 7/8 – 3.3/4 lb/A) or Captec 4L (1.5 – 3.0 qt/100 gal water). OR

D.    thiophanate-methyl- Topsin-M 70WP (1 lb/A). If using Topsin-M and leaf spot protection is needed, tank mix with captan or thiram. OR

E.    iprodione- Iprodione 4L (1.5 - 2.0 pt/A). Do not apply more than one spray of iprodione per season. OR

F.    cyprodinil/fludioxonil- Switch (11 - 14 oz/A) Note: Use of Switch in Nassau and Suffolk Counties limited to strawberries. OR

G.    paraffinic oil- JMS Stylet Oil (3 qt/100 gal). Spray at no less than 400 PSI using ceramic spray nozzles (ALBUZ^®ATR, lilac color or their equivalent). Many common pesticides are phytotoxic when applied with or close to oil sprays (e.g., captan). Check the label for restrictions. OR

H.    pyrimethanil- Scala (18 fl oz/A; 9 fl oz/A when mixed with another botryticide). Apply at 7 to 14-day intervals depending on disease pressure. Do not apply more than 54 fl oz/A Scala per season. OR

I.      pyraclostrobin/boscalid- Pristine WG (18.5 - 23.0 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Pristine before alternating with another product with a different mode of action. Apply no more than five applications of Pristine per season.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    Streptomyces lydicus WYEC108- Actinovate AG (3-12 oz/A). Foliar applications: for best results apply with a spreader/sticker prior to onset of disease. Re-apply at 7-14 day intervals depending on disease pressure and environmental conditions. OR

B.    paraffinic oil- Organic JMS Stylet Oil (3 qt/100 gal). Spray at no less than 400 PSI using ceramic spray nozzles (ALBUZ^®ATR, lilac color or their equivalent). Many common pesticides are phytotoxic when applied with or close to oil sprays (e.g., captan). Check the label for restrictions.

5.3.3.2 Leaf Spot, Leaf Scorch, Leaf Blight

Refer to information given under Early spring (section 5.3.1).

5.3.4 FULL BLOOM (Do not apply insecticides during bloom)

5.3.4.1 Gray Mold (Botrytis Fruit Rot)

Refer to information given under Early bloom (section 5.3.3.1).

5.3.5 FRUIT SET THROUGH HARVEST

5.3.5.1 Anthracnose

Symptoms- One or more circular spots occur on the fruit. Spots originally are tan or light brown but become darker and sunken. Sunken spots are usually about one eighth to one quarter inch in diameter and may be covered with pink slimy spore masses during wet or very humid periods. The disease may occur on both green and ripe fruit, but is most common on ripe fruit following periods of warm, wet weather. In New York, anthracnose occurs only sporadically and is a more common problem on day-neutral varieties in the summer than it is on June-bearing varieties. However, the disease can be serious on June-bearing varieties if warm, wet weather conditions occur between fruit set and harvest.

Management Options

Guideline

Cultural management

A.    Provide good air circulation by controlling weeds and reducing planting density.

B.    The anthracnose fungus is spread throughout a planting by splashing raindrops or sprinkler irrigation. Straw mulch may reduce the rate of disease spread relative to bare ground (less splash), whereas black plastic (high elasticity) promotes rain splash, and in turn, disease spread.

Conventional products

Fungicides will not stop an epidemic once it has begun. Therefore, it is important to monitor fields for the presence of anthracnose, particularly if the weather has been warm and wet, and quickly begin a control program once the disease is detected. If the field has a history of anthracnose, a protective fungicide schedule is recommended.

A.    azoxystrobin- Abound 2.08F (6.0 - 15.5 fl oz/A). For resistance management, do not apply more than two sequential sprays of Abound before alternating with a fungicide that has a different mode of action; do not make more than three applications of Abound per year. Abound is extremely phytotoxic to certain apple varieties. DO NOT spray Abound where spray drift may reach apple trees. DO NOT spray when conditions favor drift beyond intended area of application. DO NOT use spray equipment that has been previously used to spray Abound to spray apple trees. OR

B.    captan/fenhexamid- Captevate 68 WDG (5.25 lb/A). Do not apply more than 21 lb/A Captevate per season. When plastic mulch is used, do not apply Captevate within 15 feet of natural vegetation or aquatic areas. OR

C.    pyraclostrobin- Cabrio EG (14 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Cabrio before alternating with another product with a different mode of action (not Abound 2.08F). Apply no more than five applications of Cabrio per season. OR

D.    pyraclostrobin/boscalid- Pristine WG (18.5 – 23.0 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Pristine before alternating with another product with a different mode of action (not Abound 2.08F). Apply no more than five applications of Pristine per season.

Organic products

None known.

5.3.5.2 Leather Rot

Symptoms- Infected areas on immature fruit are brown, whereas those on maturing fruit appear bleached out. On all fruit, the infected areas are tough, leathery, and discolored on the inside as well as the outside of the fruit. Diseased fruits have a pungent smell and bitter taste.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

Leather rot is most severe during periods of abundant warm rains during the fruiting period and in flooded soils. The most effective control procedures are:

A.    Minimize soil flooding through site selection by avoiding planting in ruts and by preventing soil compaction.

B.    Provide a supplemental layer of straw mulch between rows throughout the fruiting season. The mulch provides a physical barrier between the soil-borne pathogen and the susceptible fruit.

Conventional products

Mefanoxam, fosetyl-Al, and phosphorous acid products provide some control, but are most effective when used in combination with straw mulch (an infection barrier).

A.     mefanoxam- Ridomil Gold EC (1 pt/treated acre). One soil application of Ridomil Gold is allowed during the fruiting season for control of leather rot, in addition to the red stele applications. Broadcast applications are preferred for leather rot control. Multiple applications of mefanoxam could lead to resistant Phytophthora (the pathogen) populations, and hence, should not be practiced. OR

B.    foestyl-Al- Aliette 80WDG (2.5 – 5.0 lb/A). Fosetyl-Al may be applied at 7 - 14 day intervals after early bloom, but should be targeted primarily to provide protection during periods of warm (70’s and 80’s), very wet weather. OR

C.    phosphorous acid- Phostrol (2.5 – 5.0 pt/A). Phosphorous acid may be applied at 7 - 14 day intervals after early bloom, but should be targeted primarily to provide protection during periods of warm (70’s and 80’s), very wet weather.

D.    potassium phosphite- Prophyt (2 - 4 pts/A). Make the first application at 10% bloom and apply on a 7 - 14 day interval throughout fruit set while the weather is conducive for infection.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    Streptomyces lydicus WYEC108- Actinovate AG (3-12 oz/A). Foliar applications: for best results apply with a spreader/sticker prior to onset of disease. Re-apply at 7-14 day intervals depending on disease pressure and environmental conditions.

5.3.5.3 Tarnished Plant Bug

Refer to information given under Prebloom (section 5.3.2.2).

5.3.5.4 Sap Beetle

Symptoms- Sap beetle adults make cavities in ripe and overripe fruit as well as spreading spores of decay organisms. The larvae also feed on ripe and overripe fruit and are a source of contamination in harvested fruit. Until a few years ago, sap beetles were uncommon in strawberries. Now, sap beetles are occasionally found in high numbers in later ripening strawberry plantings throughout the state. Two species feed on strawberry fruits: the common picnic beetle, one quarter inch long with four yellow spots on the back, and the smaller, brown strawberry sap beetle without distinctive markings. Strawberry sap beetle is the more serious pest because it does not limit its activity to over-ripe fruit. Beetles overwinter at the edge of woodlots and possibly under woody crops such as brambles and blueberries but they do not appear to overwinter in strawberry fields. As strawberries ripen, beetles move into the field and begin feeding and laying eggs. Fruit touching the ground or straw mulch appears particularly vulnerable.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known, although cultivars that tend to hold fruit off the ground may be less vulnerable to adult feeding and larval contamination.

Cultural management

A.    Keep the field free of ripe and over-ripe fruit.

Conventional products

A.    *bifenthrin- *Brigade WSB (6.4 – 32.0 oz/A). Do not apply *Brigade within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes.

B.    *fenpropathrin- *Danitol 2.4EC (16 oz/A). Do not apply *Danitol within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes. *Danitol has a maximum single application rate of 0.3 lb AI per acre and a maximum seasonal application of 0.6 lb AI per acre.

C.    acetamiprid- Assail SG (4.0 - 6.9 oz/A).

Note: *Bifenthrin and *fenpropathrin are broad-spectrum pyrethroid insecticides that also kill beneficial arthropods, so use with caution. Frequent use may disrupt biological control of spider mites resulting in mite outbreaks. Use sufficient water (100-300 gal) to ensure uniform coverage since sap beetles stay close to the ground and are quick to seek hiding places when disturbed. Avoid use when bees are active.

Organic products

None known.

5.3.6 POST HARVEST

5.3.6.1 Leaf Spot, Leaf Scorch, Leaf Blight

Refer to information given under Early spring (section 5.3.1).

5.3.6.2 Twospotted Spider Mite

Refer to information given under Summer months after planting (section 5.2.1.2). See additional cultural note below

Cultural management

A.    Mow and incorporate leaves at renovation.

5.3.7 SPECIAL PESTS

5.3.7.2 Root Weevils

Symptoms- Different species, but most commonly the strawberry root weevil, the black vine weevil, and the rough strawberry root weevil. These pests attack the roots or crowns of plants while in the grub stage. All have a one-year life cycle, although some are known to live two seasons. Adults emerge about late June. Beds with heavy infestations show distinct patches or spots that appear stunted and have substantially reduced yields. The roots of injured plants are badly eaten away, and continued infestation may destroy infested plants.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None adapted to the Northeastern region.

Cultural management

Rotating crop out of strawberries for a least 1 year will reduce root weevil densities. Also, a barrier (plastic fence) has been used to prevent the wingless adults from moving from an infested field to a new field. See http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/hort/news /allontario/ao0306a2.htm for details.

Biological control

Insect parasitic nematodes have been shown to provide control of root weevil larvae in strawberries. Two species in the genus Heterorhabditis have shown promise in our area: H. bacteriophora and H. marelatus. There are two times during the season that are good for releasing nematodes: spring as soil temperatures raise above 50 F and in the later summer or early fall. It’s important for either release times that there is sufficient water via rain or irrigation to ensure the nematodes get moved into the root zone. There are a number of commercial sources for insect parasitic nematodes. See the web site on nematodes maintained by Ohio State University [http://www2.oardc.ohio-state.edu/nematodes/ nematode_suppliers.html].

Conventional products

A.    *bifenthrin- *Brigade WSB (8 - 32 oz./A). Adult weevils can be targeted with one of the pyrethroid insecticides. Apply *Brigade soon after adult emergence in mid to late June. Adult weevils are active at night so their presence is best determined by looking for their characteristic feeding damage on leaves (notching from the edge). Do not apply *Brigade within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes.

Organic products

None known.

5.3.7.3 Cyclamen Mite

Symptoms- This tiny (one one-hundredth-inch) mite is pinkish orange and shiny when mature. Its translucent eggs are often so abundant that they appear as a white mass along the midveins of folded, newly emerging leaves The mites feed on the young leaves in plant crowns; when the leaves emerge, they are stunted, crinkled, and malformed. Blossom feeding later results in misshapen fruit. The mites are most troublesome in strawberry beds that are kept for long periods. They increase in number during bloom and peak during fruit development.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known. ‘Cabot’ is particularly susceptible.

Cultural management

Avoid infested planting stock.

Conventional products

A.    *endosulfan- *Thionex 3EC (1 1/3 qt/A) or *Thionex 50W (2 lb/A). If mites are regularly a problem, apply *endosulfan just before bloom. Alternatively, an application during bed renovation can more easily reach the mites in the crown leaves after the old foliage is cut off. Drench crowns using a minimum of 200 gals dilute spray/A. Do not use *endosulfan more than once during blossom period or within 4 days of picking. This spray also controls tarnished plant bug, spittlebug, and aphid infestations.

Organic products

None known.

5.3.7.4 Garden Slugs

Symptoms- These soft-bodied mollusks resemble snails without a shell. Slugs feed on ripening fruit, leaving holes in the berries. They are most active at night and during cool, wet weather. Populations are greatest when the weather is damp and the planting is mulched. Translucent silver to whitish slime trails are visible on damaged plant parts.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

A.    Eliminating mulch will reduce slug populations, but will cause other problems, so this is not recommended.

B.    Good sanitation and weed control helps to reduce slug populations.

C.    In areas where slugs are a problem, avoid perennial clovers as cover crops and rotate out of alfalfa or other perennial legumes 1 year prior to planting establishment.

D.    Overhead irrigation creates conditions especially favorable to slugs. If overhead irrigation must be used, irrigate during morning hours to allow foliage to dry before evening.

Conventional products

An application in mid-September will reduce egg-laying while an application prior to fruit ripening will reduce the new generation.

A.    metaldehyde bait- is both a slug attractant and a poison, and commercial formulations are available for baiting. The most effective formulations contain additional attractants. Deadline M-PS (10 - 40 lb/A). Apply as a soil surface treatment. Use as a band treatment between the rows after formation of edible plant parts. . Do not apply to or contaminate edible portions of the plant. Apply as a soil treatment. Use a band treatment between rows after formation of edible plant parts Apply when first plant damage appears or as anticipated and repeat as needed for control; apply any time of day but evening applications are preferred. This product should never be applied to dry soil. Applications should be made following irrigation for best results. Do not re-water for 48 hrs after application. DO NOT allow bait to contact parts of the plant that may be used for food or feed purposes or allow drift to adjoining food, fiber or pasture crops. Use only as a baiting treatment to be applied directly to the soil area beneath plants. Band application in border and around perimeter of crop. Apply when first plant damage appears or as anticipated and repeat as needed for control; apply any time of day but evening applications are preferred. DO NOT exceed 129 lb/A (4.5 lb AI)/A per growing season. Note: The above products may be fatal to children and dogs or other pets if eaten. Keep children and pets out of treated areas!

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    iron phosphate- Sluggo AG (20 - 44 lb/A). Spread bait around perimeter to intercept slug migrating towards plots. If slugs are already in plots, carefully spread bait between the furrows near the base of plants. Do not apply over the entire areas but apply selectively. Apply higher rates if the infestation is severe or if the area is heavily watered or after long periods of heavy rain. Reapply as bait is consumed or at least every 2 weeks. Do not place in piles. Soil should be moist with little or no standing water. If the ground is dry, wet before applying bait. Note: For terrestrial use only- do not apply directly to water or areas where surface water is present or to intertidal areas below the mean high water mark. Do not contaminate water when cleaning equipment or disposing of equipment wastes.

5.3.7.5 Leafrollers

Symptoms- Several species of moth larvae roll or fold strawberry leaves with silk. Leaf injury can be seen through­out the season, but an extremely large population is required before noticeable crop damage occurs.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

None established.

Conventional products

A.    carbaryl- Sevin 4F (1 - 2 pt/A) or Sevin XLR (1-2 pt/A). OR

B.    *bifenthrin- *Brigade WSB (6.4 – 32.0 oz/A). OR

C.    spinetoram- Radiant SC (6-10 fl oz/A).

Note: Do not apply *Brigade within 100 feet (using ground equipment) or 300 feet (aerial) of coastal marshes or streams that drain into coastal marshes.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    spinosad- Entrust Naturalyte (1.25 - 2.0 oz/A).OR

B.    Bacillus thuringiensis- Dipel DF (0.5 – 1.0 lb/A) or Javelin WG (0.5 – 1.0 lb/A) OR

C.    pyrethrin- PyGanic 1.4 EC_II (16 – 64 fl. oz/A) or PyGanic 5.0 EC_II (4.5 – 18.0 fl. oz/A).

5.3.7.6 Aphids

Symptoms- These soft-bodied insects usually occur on new shoots and buds in the crown of the plant and along the veins on the undersides of the leaves. When present in large numbers, they weaken the plant. Their honeydew promotes the growth of a black sooty mold, which makes the fruit and leaves sticky, hindering harvest and reducing marketability. More important, aphids are vectors for several serious virus diseases.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

None established.

Conventional products

A spray against aphids can be used just before bloom; however, many pesticides that are effective against aphids are also toxic to predators of cyclamen mites and spider mites.

A.   *endosulfan- *Thionex 3EC (1qt/A). OR

B.   *imidacloprid- *Provado 1.6F (3.8 fl oz/A) or *Pasada 1.6F (3.75 fl. oz/A). OR

C.   acetamiprid- Assail 30SG (1.9 - 4.0 oz/A).

Note: Aphids may build up where Kelthane (dicofol) was used for spider mite control.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    pyrethrin- PyGanic 1.4 EC_II (16 – 64 fl. oz/A) or PyGanic 5.0 EC_II (4.5 – 18.0 fl. oz/A).

5.3.7.7 Phytophthora Root Rot (Red Stele)

Symptoms- Symptoms of infection often appear just before harvest. Diseased plants appear stunted and off-color, and will often wilt and collapse if the weather becomes warm and dry. Because these same symptoms may be caused by other factors that destroy roots (such as root-feeding insects), the diagnosis depends on an examination of the plant’s root system. In a diseased plant, the roots have a “rat-tail” appearance caused by loss of the fine branched feeder roots from the main fleshy roots. The main fleshy roots are rotted from the tips back toward the crown. Cutting or scraping away the white outer portion (epidermis and cortex) just above the rotten areas in early infections sometimes reveals a reddish root core (stele). Infected plants usually appear in groups and are frequently found in the lowest or wettest parts of a field.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

Resistant varieties include ‘Earliglow’, ‘Northeaster’,’ Mohawk’, ‘Redchief’, ‘Guardian’, ‘Allstar’, ‘Tribute’, ‘Tristar’, ‘Surecrop’, and ‘Sparkle’. However, these varieties are not resistant to all races of the red stele pathogen (Phytophthora fragariae), and as such, the disease could still develop if a race to which they are not resistant is present.

Cultural management

Because the red stele fungus is particularly active in extremely wet soil, plant only on a well-drained site or provide supplemental drainage. Growing strawberries on a raised bed will also reduce disease severity.

Conventional products

Red stele is caused by a soil-borne aquatic pathogen (Phytophthora) that may persist in the soil for many years even when strawberries are no longer grown. Fungicides labeled for control of red stele have proved effective in reducing the severity of this disease in fields where it occurs. However, they will not provide` complete control of susceptible cultivars grown in wet soils. The red stele fungus is not present in every field, thus treatments should be confined to fields where the disease has occurred previously or is suspected.

A.   mefanoxam- Ridomil Gold EC (1 pt/A). Apply Ridomil Gold to the soil in September or early October after soils begin to cool but before (or as) heavy fall rains begin. A second application may be made the following spring after the ground thaws but before bloom; this application may be banded over the row, thus reducing the amount of fungicide applied to the entire planted area (since the between-row aisles are not treated). Banding should provide the same level of red stele control as broadcast applications, although broadcasting may improve leather rot (5.3.5.2) control. Three sequential applications of mefanoxam could lead to resistant Phytophthora (the pathogen) populations, and hence, should never be practiced. OR

B.   fosetyl-Al- Aliette WDG (2.5 – 5.0 lb/A). Apply fosetyl-Al to the foliage when weather cools and turns wet in the late summer or early fall. Applications may be repeated at 30- to 60-day intervals in the spring after new leaf growth begins, particularly if soils remain wet. OR

C.   phosphorous acid- Phostrol (2.5 – 5.0 pt/A). Apply phosphorous acid, to the foliage when weather cools and turns wet in the late summer or early fall. Applications may be repeated at 30- to 60-day intervals in the spring after new leaf growth begins, particularly if soils remain wet. OR

D.   potassium phosphite- Prophyt (2 - 4 pts/A). Make foliar applications to the foliage 2 - 3 weeks after planting Applications may be repeated at 30- to 60-day intervals in the spring after new leaf growth begins, particularly if soils remain wet. Use the higher rates on susceptible varieties. Alternatively, potassium phosphite may be applied as a pre-plant dip. In this instance dip plant roots in a solution of 2 pts/100 gal for 15 - 30 minutes prior to planting.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    Streptomyces lydicus WYEC108- Actinovate AG (2-12 oz/A). Apply as a soil drench. Since Actinovate AG contains live spores of a microbe, best results will be obtained if used prior to disease onset.

5.3.7.8 Verticillium Wilt

Symptoms- Plants are affected most severely during their first year of growth. Outer leaves turn brown and eventually collapse, but inner leaves remain green until the plant dies. This symptom distinguishes Verticillium wilt from other root and crown disorders. Affected plants may occur uniformly, but more typically, they appear scattered throughout a field.

Management Options

Guideline

Resistant cultivars

In problem areas, plant only varieties resistant to Verticillium wilt. Resistant varieties include ‘Earliglow’, ‘Guardian’, ‘Allstar’, ‘Tribute’, and ‘Tristar’.

Cultural management

A.   Many weeds are hosts of the Verticillium fungus, particularly nightshade, groundcherry, redroot pigweed, lambsquarters, and horsenettle. These weeds should be strictly controlled in current and future planting sites to keep the Verticillium populations low.

B.   Fumigation may not practical or desired. Plant only resistant strawberry cultivars for at least 3 years after the last crop of tomatoes, potatoes, or eggplant.

Conventional products

If susceptible varieties are to be planted where this disease is likely (especially where potatoes, tomatoes, or eggplants have recently been grown and, to a lesser extent, in recently planted squash, cucumber, pepper, or melon fields), fumigation (table 2.4.1) is recommended. Fumigation materials also control nematodes and other root-rotting organisms and weeds. Fall fumigation is recommended to avoid the delay in planting that is necessary for proper aeration following spring fumigation.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    Streptomyces lydicus WYEC108- Actinovate AG (2-12 oz/A). Apply as a soil drench. Since Actinovate AG contains live spores of a microbe, best results will be obtained if used prior to disease onset.

5.3.7.9 Powdery Mildew

Symptoms- The edges of infected leaves roll up, sometimes revealing a white, powdery layer of mycelium and spores on the lower leaf surfaces. Purple to reddish blotches also occur frequently on the lower leaf surfaces. Symptoms are usually not evident until middle or late summer. Numerous pepper-like black flecks (survival structures – cleistothecia) may appear on infected leaf surfaces in fall.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known. If possible, avoid varieties commonly affected in New York which include: ‘Guardian’, ‘Earliglow’, ‘Darselect’, ‘Evangeline’, ‘Annapolis’, and to a lesser extent, ‘Raritan’.

Cultural management

A.    Manage weeds and regulate planting density to promote air circulation.

B.    Avoid excessive nitrogen and sites with poor air drainage.

Conventional products

A.    azoxystrobin- Abound (6.0 - 15.5 fl oz/A); See precautions, restrictions, and guidelines for Abound under Fruit Set/Anthracnose. OR

B.    myclobutanil- Rally 40WSP (2.5 - 5.0 oz/A). Do not apply more than 40 oz per acre per season. OR

C.    pyraclostrobin- Cabrio EG (12 - 14 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Cabrio before alternating with another product with a different mode of action. Apply no more than five applications of Cabrio per season. OR

D.    pyraclostrobin/boscalid- Pristine (18.5 – 23.0 oz/A). Do not make more than two sequential applications of Pristine before alternating with another product with a different mode of action. Apply no more than five applications of Pristine per season. OR

E.    paraffinic oil- JMS Stylet Oil (3 qt/100 gal.). Spray at no less than 400 PSI using ceramic spray nozzles (ALBUZ^®ATR, lilac color or equivalent).When using oil a high volume of water is needed for through coverage. Many common pesticides are phytotoxic when applied with or close to oil sprays (e.g., captan). Check the label for restrictions. OR

F.    thiophanate-methyl- Topsin 4.5FL (15 - 20 fl oz/A). See precautions, restrictions, and guidelines for Topsin-M under Early Bloom/Botrytis Fruit Rot. OR

G.    sulfur- Microthiol Disperss or Kumulus DF or Thiolux Jet 80DF (see labels for various rates). OR

H.    quinoxyfen- Quintec (4 - 6 fl oz/A). Quintec should be applied prior infection, as it will not control mildew after infection (including latent infection) has occurred. Quintec should not be applied: more than two times consecutively, more than four times per crop, or at a rate exceeding 24 fl oz per crop.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    paraffinic oil- Organic JMS Stylet Oil (3 qt/100 gal.). Spray at no less than 400 PSI using ceramic spray nozzles (ALBUZ^®ATR, lilac color or equivalent).When using oil a high volume of water is needed for through coverage. Many common pesticides are phytotoxic when applied with or close to oil sprays (e.g., captan). Check the label for restrictions. OR

B.    potassium bicarbonate – Milstop (2.5 - 5.0 lb/A). Do not mix with other pesticides for fertilizers. Not compatible with alkaline solutions. or Kailgreen 2.5 – 3.0 lb/A). Do not mix with highly acidic products or nutrients. OR

C.    Streptomyces lydicus WYEC108- Actinovate AG (3-12 oz/A). Foliar applications: for best results apply with a spreader/sticker prior to onset of disease. Re-apply at 7-14 day intervals depending on disease pressure and environmental conditions. OR

D.    sulfur- Kumulus DF or Thiolux Jet (5-10 lb/A). Begin applications when disease first appears. Repeat as necessary. Do not use on sulfur sensitive varieties.

5.3.7.10 Black Root Rot

Symptoms- Over time, plant vigor and productivity declines. Feeder rootlets die, and fleshy structural roots deteriorate and become blackened. The blackening starts as patches along the length of the root, rather than from the tip back. This disease is often associated with fields having a long history of strawberry production. Because no single cause of black root rot has been defined, there is no single control.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known. Particularly susceptible cultivars are ‘Honeoye’ and ‘Jewel’. These cultivars should be avoided in fields without adequate rotation.

Cultural management

A.    Cultural practices that reduce soil compaction, improve aeration, and promote good drainage are beneficial for reducing disease.

B.    Rotating a field out of strawberries for at least 2 - 3 years before replanting is strongly recommended to minimize black root rot damage.

C.    Damage is greater in fields with a history of *Sinbar use.

D.    The measures to control Phytophthora root rot (5.3.7.7) will also help alleviate black root rot.

Cover crops such as brown mustard and indiangrass and incorporation of compost can also provide disease suppression.

Preplant fumigation (See Table 2.4.1) sometimes reduces the microorganisms associated with black root rot. Other times, such treatments provide no control or even increase black root rot severity in subsequent years.

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    Streptomyces lydicus WYEC108- Actinovate AG (2-12 oz/A). Apply as a soil drench. Since Actinovate AG contains live spores of a microbe, best results will be obtained if used prior to disease onset.

5.3.7.11 Potato Leafhopper

Symptoms- Adults migrate into the state in early to mid June, carried by summer weather fronts. The adults and nymphs feed along the veins on the undersides of leaves by sucking plant juices, and in the process, inject a toxic substance with their saliva. Affected plants have short petioles and small distorted leaves that bend down at right angles. Leaf yellowing is also seen, starting at the margins and progressing toward the midvein.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

None established

Conventional products

A broad-spectrum insecticide applied when the leafhoppers first appear should provide control.

A.    carbaryl- Sevin 4F (1 - 2 pt/A) or Sevin XLR (1-2 pt/A). OR

B.    malathion- Malathion 57EC (1.5 – 3.0 pt/A). OR

C.    acetamiprid- Assail 30SG (1.9 - 4.0 oz/A).

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    pyrethrin- PyGanic 1.4 EC_II (16 – 64 fl. oz/A) or PyGanic 5.0 EC_II (4.5 – 18.0 fl. oz/A).

Symptoms-. Beetles emerge in early July and feed on leaves.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

None.

Conventional products

A.    acetamiprid- Assail 30SG (4.0 - 6.9 oz/A) targeting adults. OR

B.    *imidacloprid- *Admire Pro (7.0 - 10.5 fl oz/A) targeting grubs of Japanese beetle and other white grubs.

C.    carbaryl- Sevin 4F (1 - 2 qt/A) or Sevin XLR (1-2 qt/A).

Organic products

(May also be used in conventional production.)

A.    pyrethrin- PyGanic 1.4 EC_II (16 – 64 fl. oz/A) or PyGanic 5.0 EC_II (4.5 – 18.0 fl. oz/A).

5.3.7.13 Angular Leaf Spot

Symptoms- Minute water-soaked lesions (spots) appear first on lower leaf surfaces. These enlarge to form angular spots usually bordered by small veins. The spots appear translucent when held up to the light but are dark green under reflected light. Spots may ooze bacteria under moist conditions, which when dry form a whitish scaly skin. Lesions eventually become visible on upper leaf surfaces as irregular reddish brown spots. Calyxes may also become infected. The disease is favored by moderate to low day time temperatures (68°F) along with low to near freezing night time temperatures and precipitation events such as rain, overhead irrigation or heavy dews.

Management Options

Guideline

Scouting/thresholds

None established.

Resistant cultivars

None known.

Cultural management

A.    Maintain plant health.

B.    Minimize overhead irrigation.

Conventional products

A.    copper hydroxide. Kocide DF (2 - 3 lb/A). Begin applications when disease symptoms appear. Continue on a weekly basis as long as conditions favor continued disease development. Apply in at least 20 gal/A. Use higher rates when conditions favor disease. Discontinue application if signs of crop injury appear.

Organic products

None known.