Test PB Collection: FTE

Injury from salts is a common concern in most strawberry production areas. Salt concentrations are usually measured with Electrical Conductivity (EC) in deciSiemens per meter (dS/m). Strawberry plants are most sensitive to salts after planting, when root systems are small.

Oxyfluorfen injury in strawberryStrawberries are highly susceptible to weed competition, particularly immediately after planting when the plants are small and frequent irrigation provides ideal conditions for weed germination.

Calcium DeficiencyBalanced nutrition is important for strawberry plants to ensure optimal growth, yield potential, good quality fruit, and the ability to withstand disease and pest pressure. Excessive or insufficient supply of nutrients can lead to a variety of plant health issues.

Physical and physiological disorders of strawberry plants are caused by plant responses to non-biological factors. Adverse weather events, improperly planted and poorly maintained transplants and interactions from fertilizers or pesticides can all cause plant disorders.

2,4D is a phenoxyacetic acid and is not registered for use in strawberry. The drift of this herbicide can occur if nearby areas are treated for broadleaf weed control.

Suppress is OMRI approved non-selective herbicide and is a mix of caprylic and capric acids. This contact material interferes with plant cells membranes causing leakage and desiccation.

Strawberries exposed to wind in sandy soils can at times accumulate sand on the leaves themselves and can cause visual damage or worse to the plant. The examples (Fig. 1 and 1B) are of strawberry leaves at t he field edge of a fairly sandy area several days after a period of strong wind.

Micronized sulfur products are often used in strawberry for control of powdery mildew (UC IPM guidelines link: http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/r734100711.html). Exceeding recommended rates, application during hot (>80F) and dry conditions can result in injury to leaves, petioles and fruit.

Glufosinate, usually used as glufosinate ammonium, is an herbicide for control of emerged and established weeds. It is not registered for use in strawberry beds but is being considered for use in furrows with protection of shields to prevent possible contact with strawberry plants.

California Department of Food & Agriculture's Plant Health & Pest Prevention Services regulate the sale of nursery products.