Problem
Nutritional disorder – copper (Cu) deficiency
Symptoms
Younger leaves initially develop an uniform, light yellow (chlorosis) coloration. In the interior of the leaf, while the outside margin remains green. This produces a halo effect (similar to Zn deficiency. With severe deficiencies the interveinal areas become bleached.
Fruit size is normal.
Depiction of copper (Cu) deficiency.
Brian E. Whipker
Similar Problems
Iron, manganese, zinc, and molybdenum deficiencies may produce similar symptoms
Additional Information
Because symptoms can occur due to many possible causes, it is important to determine the actual cause. Tissue testing will help identify any nutritional disorders. Nutrient deficiencies usually take weeks to develop.
Diagnostic Tips
Take a soil sample to determine if nutrient levels are inadequate. Submit a leaf sample for nutrient analysis. The sufficiency range for copper in strawberries vary and is between 3 and 15 or 6 to 20 ppm. Values below 3 ppm are considered deficient and above 30 ppm are considered excessive.
Corrective Measures
Take a soil and tissue test to determine nutrient levels. Make adjustments based on those test results and the lab’s recommendations.
Management
Conduct a soil test prior to planting the crop to determine if pre-plant fertilizer applications are required. Fertilizer can also be injected to the crop during active growth. Recommendations vary by soil type and your location, so check with local resources for guidelines.
Useful Resources
Strawberry Tissue Analysis – North Carolina
Fertilization of Strawberries in Florida – Florida
Funding Sources
Funding was provided in part by the National Sustainable Agriculture Program: Sustainable Strawberry Initiative and the following sources.
A thank you is also expressed to Kube Pak of Allentown, New Jersey for donating strawberry plants.
Publication date: April 24, 2014
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