Eyespot of Strawberries
Mycosphaerella fragariae

Names:

Strawberry Leaf Spot.

Description:

A fungal disease causing round spots that are usually less than 3 mm diameter on leaves that are initially brown and develop a grey to white centre with purplish to reddish margins. When large numbers of spots occur the leaf may yellow and die.

Species Affected:

Strawberry.

Biology:

Favoured by wet periods in late spring.

Survives on plant debris in the soil.

Spores spread by wind and raindrop splash.

Life Cycle:

Origin and History:

Distribution:

Significance:

Early infections can cause major losses. Late infections usually have little economic impact.

Management and Control:

Don't plant diseased runners.

Destroy diseased plant residues.

Avoid planting in damp shady areas.

Apply fungicides.

Related and Similar Species:

References:

Acknowledgments:

Collated by HerbiGuide. Phone 08 98444064 for more information.