Since each spittle mass represents a single insect, control may not be necessary if only a few are present. Hand pick the insects, or use a common garden insecticide to control them. The immature millipedea thin, white, many-segmented insectbecomes a pest by burrowing into the ripe fruit. Millipedes are almost always present where mulches are used, since they feed on decaying organic matter. Remove excess mulch and spray with carbaryl to control heavy infestations.
Some viruses reduce plant vigor without the plants showing symptoms.
Others cause strawberry plants to be small and spindly, produce an excess number of crowns and have leaves half the size of normal ones. Aster yellows is transmitted by leaf hoppers. Symptoms are similar to damage from 2,4-D with yellowing and cupping of leaves and general plant dwarfing. Many viruses are spread by feeding aphids or leaf hoppers. Control insects to reduce spread of these viruses.