Once the disease is established in the field, the fungus can overwinter on infected plant debris, primarily old-infected, mummified fruit. Plant Parasitic Nematodes Plant parasitic nematodes are microscopic round worms and are common in soils throughout the Midwest. Lesion and root-knot nematodes are probably the most destructive kinds in midwestern plantings. These organisms restrict root growth by feeding directly on roots. This makes plants less efficient at taking up water and minerals from the soil.
Nematodes can also cause strawberry roots to be more susceptible to root-rotting fungi.
Strawberry plantings in nematode infested soils are not long-lived. Production will decline rapidly after one or two seasons. Nematode damage is most common and most severe in replant situations, because preceding crops increase nematode numbers and high populations of these parasites may be present when the young plants are set. Under these conditions, strawberries never develop strong root systems. Symptoms Strawberry plants infested with nematodes are stunted and show symptoms of mineral deficiencies and water stress, particularly as the berries form.