We are observing significant anthracnose epidemics in Georgia strawberries at this time. Unfortunately, we have determined that the anthracnose fungus has developed resistance to the strobilurin (quinone outside inhibitor; FRAC 11) class of fungicides (e.g. Abound, Pristine). This is resulting in extensive disease, as spraying these materials provides no or limited control of the disease — once resistance has occurred. If you are seeing anthracnose, you should have fruit samples tested for resistance to this fungus. Also, while you wait for your test results, I would suggest that you use Captan and other active fungicides, such as Switch, until you can determine whether resistance has occurred. Please contact your local county agent for additional information.
Phil Brannen
Phil Brannen is a Professor in the Plant Pathology Department at the University of Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia for his undergraduate degree in Plant Protection and Pest Management, where he also received an M.S. in Plant Pathology, followed by a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from Auburn University. He has extensive experience with disease management programs in numerous cropping systems. He serves as the extension fruit pathologist for Georgia – conducting research and technology transfer for multiple fruit commodities. His efforts are directed towards developing IPM practices to solve disease issues and technology transfer of disease-management methods to commercial fruit producers. He also teaches the graduate level Field Pathology Course, the History of Plant Diseases and their Impact on Human Societies Course, team-teaches the IPM Course, coordinates the Viticulture and Enology in the Mediterranean Region Course (Cortona, Italy), and guest lectures in numerous other courses throughout the year.