strawberry image

Strawberry Diagnostic Key

Integrated Pest Management

Type
Physiological
Leaf Condition
Distorted, Interveinal necrosis, Stunted
Leaf Color
Pale green, Marginal chlorosis, Interveinal chlorosis, Complete chlorosis
Leaf Location
Entire leaf, Edge, Young, Mature
Petioles Condition
Distorted, Death
Plant Size
Stunted
Flower Condition
Distorted
Field Distribution
Random, Edges, Localized
Prior Environmental
Wind, Pesticide spray
Season
Post transplant, Early spring, Pre harvest, Harvest, Post harvest
Cropping System
Annual plasticulture, Perennial matted row

Problem

2,4-D herbicide injury

Strawberry plant with twisted petioles and deformed leaves.

2,4-D herbicide injury 48 hours after application.

Rocco D Schiavone

Strawberry plant with lead deformation and twisted petioles.

2,4-D injury 5 days after application.

Rocco D Schiavone

Strawberry plant with dead leaves and petioles.

Strawberry with 2,4-D injury 10 days after application.

Rocco D Schiavone

Symptoms

Leaf and petiole distortion with twisting and bending. Fruit fasciation. Plant death.

Similar Problems

Other auxin herbicides such as dicambia will cause similar damage to strawberry plants.

Additional Information

When used in matted row apply in winter on dormant plants or post harvest as a renovation treatment. May cause injury from drift when applied to adjacent turf or crops. Use amine formulation only when applied to strawberries.

Diagnostic Tips

Injury will be evident soon after exposure. Plant will grow rapidly with twisted foliage before death.

Corrective Measures

No corrective measures available.

Management

Avoid use of broadleaf herbicide near strawberry field. Avoid pesticide application during wind. Use large droplet size and low pressure to avoid drift. If used in matted row system be sure plants are dormant for winter application.

Funding Sources

Funding was provided in part by the National Sustainable Agriculture Program: Sustainable Strawberry Initiative and the following sources.

University of Arkansas Division of Ag logo

Walmart logo

Author:

Research Specialist
Horticultural Science
 This NC State FactSheet can be viewed and printed at https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/publication/24-d-injury.
NC State Extension