How to Differentiate between Causes of Strawberry Plant Damage: Chilli Thrips, Spider Mites, Foliar Nematodes, or Phytotoxicity from Herbicides?

Lovely Adhikary , Sriyanka Lahiri, Nathan Boyd, andJohan Desaeger

Release Date: 6/5/2025

DOI: 10.32473/edis-in1445-2025

Agriculture

Abstract

This publication aims to provide information on how to differentiate damage caused by chilli thrips, spider mites, foliar nematodes, and phytotoxicity due to herbicide application on strawberry plants. The symptomology of these pests and the effects of phytotoxicity from herbicides can look similar, especially when microscopic pests are involved. Correctly identifying the cause behind each damage symptom is essential. The intended audience of this article is strawberry growers, crop scouts, Extension agents, and industry personnel working on improved production and management of strawberries.

About this Publication

This document is ENY2121, one of a series of the Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date May 2025. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication. © 2025 UF/IFAS. This publication is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0.

How to Cite

Adhikary, L., Lahiri, S., Boyd, N., & Desaeger, J. (2025). How to Differentiate between Causes of Strawberry Plant Damage: Chilli Thrips, Spider Mites, Foliar Nematodes, or Phytotoxicity from Herbicides? EDIS, 2025(3). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-in1445-2025

Authors

Lovely Adhikary

Contact

student

University of Florida

graduate research assistant, Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Wimauma, FL

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Sriyanka Lahiri

Specialist

University of Florida

associate professor, strawberries and small fruits, Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Wimauma, FL

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Nathan Boyd

Specialist

University of Florida

associate center director and professor, weed management of strawberries and vegetables, Department of Horticultural Sciences, UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Wimauma, FL

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Johan Desaeger

Specialist

University of Florida

associate professor, nematology, Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Wimauma, FL

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Publication #ENY2121

Disclaimers

The use of trade names in this publication is solely for the purpose of providing specific information. UF/IFAS does not guarantee or warranty the products named, and references to them in this publication do not signify our approval to the exclusion of other products of suitable composition.

All chemicals should be used in accordance with directions on the manufacturer's label.