Strawberries come in 2 types: June-bearing sorts and ever-bearing varieties. June-bearing strawberries grow one crop per year in spring or early summer, while ever-bearing varieties can blossom and fruit over an extended season. Both varieties need the same growing conditions and maintenance, and therefore are susceptible to the very same kinds of respiratory disorder. To stop strawberry bacterial infection, such as powdery mildew and fruit rot, grow resistant varieties, supply excellent drainage and spray fungicides when necessary.
Using Fungicidal Sprays
When using fungicide sprays to get strawberry plants, timing and type of fungicide is vital. Follow a spray program that starts at the time of new growth and goes through the end of crop. When using any type of fungicidal spray, then it’s important to follow label directions carefully and never use more than directed on the package directions, because this can damage plants, the environment and your health.
Spray Program
You may begin using fungicides for strawberry plants when new growth starts. Use a copper-containing fungicide such as Bordeaux mixture, a mixture of copper sulfate and lime, but utilize a more diluted program to prevent plant injury. When strawberry plants have been in pre-bloom condition and blossom buds show white color, spray on the plants again with liquid copper or Bordeaux mixture.
Ongoing Spray Program
To help prevent bacterial disease during the growing season, spray on the strawberry plants every 10 days to 2 week using Bordeaux mixture, sulfur or neem oil. When using sulfur, then do not apply if you have used an oil spray in the last 30 days and do not utilize when temperatures are above 80 F. Neem oil needs to be used in early morning or the evening hours. Sulfur works well in preventing powdery mildew, while neem oil eliminates powdery mildew spores and protects against insects that carry disease.
Use Fungicide Properly
Fungicides are most effective when used correctly. When using a fungicidal spray, then apply with sufficient water to fully cover all leaves and fruit. The answer needs to saturate the plant and drip from the plant leaves. The fungicide product label has complete instructions for usage, storage and disposal. You ought to use fungicides on dry days with no end and while wearing long pants, long sleeves and eye safety. It is safe to shop any garden chemicals in their original container, tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets. When disposing of any fungicides and other garden chemicals, never pour them down the sink drain or toilet. You may take them to your local household hazardous waste sight or give them away.