Yields are also affected. Most damage occurs after petal fall. In extreme cases, up to 85 per cent of the fruit may be damaged. Monitoring Early monitoring of fields is important if damage is to be minimized. It is easily done using a standard, insect sweep net, being sure to sample throughout the field on a regular basis, starting at the bud stage.
Growers often sample by tapping the blossom clusters of strawberry plants into shallow trays.
However, the adults fly quickly when disturbed and are often unseen. Because the adults can fly long distances, an outbreak may occur suddenly. Regular sampling and sweeping is needed to detect such infestations. A registered insecticide may be used according to label directions just prior to blossoms opening and again when fruit begins to colour. Comments Because many weeds serve as alternate hosts, it is important to eradicate weeds in and near strawberry plantings.