Q How can I recognise strawberry leaf spot?

A Purple-red spots, usually with a greyish centre develop on the leaves, with older leaves being worst affected. In extreme cases the spots may coalesce, discolouring the entire leaf. The infection may also spread to the leaf stalks and flower stems. Severe infections may cause loss of vigour
and cropping if they develop in spring, but generally attacks are worst in late summer or early autumn so cause little significant damage.

Caption: Usually strawberry leaf spot causes little significant damage to the plant

Q What can I do if my plants are affected by strawberry leaf spot?

A Keep strawberries well watered, mulched and fed to encourage the production of new healthy leaves. Avoid encouraging excessive, soft foliage production (eg, by excessive high-nitrogen feeding) as these leaves are more susceptible to damage.

Q How can I prevent strawberry leaf spot?

A Pick or cut off infected leaves to help stop further infections. At the end of the season, have a tidy up, removing all dead, diseased or dying plants.