For strawberries and other fruit commodities, there are always numerous questions concerning which fungicides to use and when to apply them. We provide a detailed IPM guide for strawberries at www.smallfruits.org, but producers often find a cookbook approach helpful. Guido Schnabel (Clemson University) compiled the attached document, which provides useful information on a couple of suggested spray programs—especially if you’ve been growing strawberries for many years in the same location. In new plantings in new locations, we might expect less fungicide resistance in the fungal populations. However, resistance can come in with the plants. Regardless, this is a good document to review as you head into winter and plan for spring. We are aware of some Neopestalotiopsis issues in Georgia, but overall, things seem quieter than last year. The University of Georgia Molecular Diagnostic Clinic can test for resistance in the Botrytis and anthracnose fungi, and the same lab can confirm the presence of aggressive Neopestalotiopsis—if needed. There is a fee for these services, but the information will help you understand potential resistance issues on your site or determine if you have aggressive Neopestalotiopsis in your fields. If you’re interested in these services, please contact your local county agent for more information.
