Weed control in strawberries (late May)

In established plantings, where bloom or fruit is present, the window for weed control in strawberries is CLOSED. Herbicides such as Poast, Venture and RoundUp (spot-treatments) have a 30 days to harvest interval and should not be used after bloom.

An exception is the herbicide AIM EC. This product can be used up to one day before harvest, but only with a hooded sprayer to weeds in between the strawberry rows. Avoid all contact with the strawberry plant… this is a "burn-off" product.

In new plantings: The window for post-emergent weed control is OPEN for 2-6 weeks after planting. Use 2,4-D Amine before the strawberry plant produces runners. 2,4-D provides post-emergence weed control, but apply when weeds are small. To reduce risk of strawberry plant injury avoid application in warm humid weather. These conditions enhance uptake and will lead to more twisting and set back of strawberry plants. Use the amine formulation of this product and avoid drift to sensitive crops (ie tomatoes).

Grass herbicides can also be applied 2-6 weeks after planting, where grasses are a problem. These herbicides are very safe to strawberry plants, be sure to apply at the appropriate timing for grasses , generally the 2-5 leaf stage for grains and grasses, and the 3 leaf stage for quackgrass. Check the label.

Avoid the use of grass herbicides for several days application of 2,4-D and vice versa. Never tank mix these predicts on strawberries.

Weed seedling in new strawberries