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. Strawberries may or may not be on the label. Before buying or applying any of these fungicides, check the label to make certain strawberries are listed. Kenneth R. Bolen, Director of Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.