Leaf Scorch of Strawberry
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Leaf scorch (Diplocarpon earliana) is a fungal disease with early symptoms that resemble common leaf spot, but centers do not turn tan/white. Instead, spots develop black centers with dark spore masses. As spots enlarge, they become irregular or blotchy; leaf tissue turns brown and dries up; leaf margins often curl upward. Petioles, stems, and flower parts can also become infected. Diseased plants are predisposed to other stress factors. The fungus overwinters in plants and debris; it may also be introduced through tips and plugs. Disease becomes progressively worse in multi-year plantings, but is often a minor problem in single-year systems.
Strawberry leaf scorch in planting.
(Photo: John Strang, University of Kentucky)
Strawberry leaf scorch close-up.
(Photo: John Strang, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Begin with clean plant material.
- Use proper sanitation.
- Remove infected leaves and debris.
- Increase air circulation to encourage leaf drying.
- Consider resistant cultivars.
- Use fungicides if disease becomes severe.
