Iron Deficiency of Strawberry
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Iron deficiency occurs when soil pH is too high, generally above 7.4. Initially it is characterized by yellowing of the youngest leaves; leaf veins remain green. Symptoms progress to older leaves. Iron is not mobile within plants, so it is not moved into the newest leaves from the older leaves. Symptoms may be evident only in certain areas within the same field.
Severe iron deficiency in planting.
(Photo: Tami Marcum, Richmond KY Grower)
Close-up of iron deficiency foliar symptoms.
(Photo: Tami Marcum, Richmond KY Grower)
Management:
- Select planting sites with soil pH of 6.5 or below. Adjust high pH by incorporating sulfur into soil at least 6 months prior to planting.
- A tissue analysis can detect deficiency in its early stages.
- Apply iron chelate to foliage or soil to allow plants to take up iron at a high soil pH. Iron chelate applied close to harvest may not be effective.
