Early evidence of black root rot is the presence of brown lesions on these lateral roots. Crown tissues are affected as well and become brown, dry and spongy. Because of damage to the root and crown system, affected plants steadily decline in vigor which reduces both yield and quality. When this occurs it's time to start a new bed in a different location. Symptoms of red stele and Verticillium wilt are similar.
Affected plants lack vigor, are stunted, and wilt during the heat of the day.
Leaves go from a shiny green to a dull bluish-green and die from the edges inward. Within the bed individual plants or clusters of plants may show these symptoms. Follow the control practices mentioned for black root rot, and when rotating a strawberry planting do not follow tomatoes, peppers or potatoes in the rotation sequence. Diseases can be a challenge in producing backyard strawberries. However, with good management practices, strawberries can be grown successfully with minimal fungicide input.