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Poor pollination results in the development of small misshapen fruit. Low fruit set, small berry size, misshapen fruit, and low yields result from poor pollination. A high level of pollination is achieved through a combination of self-, wind, and insect pollination. 

Misshapen fruit as a result of a lack of achene (seed) development when

pollination did not occur. (Note  fruit expansion around achenes that were pollinated.)

(Photo: John Strang, University of Kentucky)

Misshapen fruit as a result of a lack of achene (seed)
development when pollination did not occur.

(Photo: John Strang, University of Kentucky)

Management:

• Remove row covers during warm days while plants are in bloom to provide access by bees.
• Avoid insecticide applications during bloom.
• If insecticides are necessary, spray in the evening after bees return to hives. One hive of bees will sufficiently pollinate one acre of strawberries.

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