To prevent this disease, use a mulch to minimize rain splash onto the fruit, or fungicides may be applied. Viruses may stunt plant growth or cause mottling or curling of leaves. They are introduced by insects such as aphids or leafhoppers. To prevent viruses, use certified plants and control these insects. Nymphs puncture individual seeds and inject a toxin so that the fleshy part of the berry stops developing where the seed was injured.
Damaged seeds are hollow and turn a straw-brown color.
Refer to MU publication G6010, Home Fruit Spray Schedules , for a listing of products that may be applied to control insect pests on strawberry plants. Leafrollers are small worms that roll the leaves together and feed on the leaves. They must be controlled if they become numerous. Mites are tiny, spiderlike creatures that are typically found on the underside of leaves. Mites tend to be the most damaging during hot, dry periods, when they suck plant juices from the leaves.