The strawberry mite (Steneotarsonemus fragariae) is a small arachnid belonging to the Daphnia family. The female is oval in shape with a transverse groove between the second and third pair of limbs. Body color is whitish, slightly brown. Body length 0,2-0,3 mm. Males are slightly smaller (up to 0,2 mm). Fertilized females usually overwinter in folded leaf sheaths, behind bracts or at the base of plants, but never in the soil. The optimal temperature for feeding the pest is about 20 degrees C, humidity is about 80%. Up to 5 generations develop during the season.
Symptoms
Mites pierce the leaves and suck out the juices, which causes whitening and yellowing, and then deformation of the leaves. Infected plants are small, produce poorly and may fall out completely. They bloom poorly, the centers of the flowers turn brown.
Host plants
This species is widespread and is one of the main pests of strawberries both in the field and in sheltered conditions.
Control methods
Control mainly involves the creation of new plantations from healthy and mite-free seedlings. After harvesting the fruits, the leaves should be mowed and burned. Chemical control is carried out before and after fruiting. If you notice any alarming symptoms, use Agrocover Koncentrat.
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