Strawberry plants are a popular addition to any garden or balcony, but they can be fickle. One of the most common issues gardeners face is a dying strawberry plant. When a strawberry plant starts to die, it can be challenging to determine what is causing the problem and how to fix it.
Identifying a dying strawberry plant is the first step in saving it. Signs of a dying strawberry plant include yellowing or browning leaves, stunted growth, legginess, leaf spot, and leaf curling. Once you have identified that your strawberry plant is dying, it is essential to determine the cause of the problem.
There are several reasons why a strawberry plant might be dying, including improper watering, nutrient deficiencies, climate conditions, pests, and diseases. Preventing these issues is crucial to keep your strawberry plants healthy and thriving.
If your strawberry plant is already showing signs of distress, there are steps you can take to revive it.
Key Takeaways
- Identifying a dying strawberry plant is the first step in saving it.
- Proper watering, nutrient balance, and monitoring for pests and diseases can prevent strawberry plant health issues.
- Reviving a dying strawberry plant requires diagnosing the problem and taking targeted action to correct it.
Identifying a Dying Strawberry Plant
When it comes to identifying a dying strawberry plant, there are several signs to look out for. In this section, we will cover the appearance and discoloration, wilting and stunted growth, and holes and infestation that can signal a plant in decline.
Appearance and Discoloration
One of the first signs of a dying strawberry plant is a change in appearance and discoloration. The leaves may turn yellow or brown, and the plant may start to look wilted or droopy.
The fruit may also start to shrivel up and turn brown before it fully ripens. If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to take action quickly to save the plant.
Wilting and Stunted Growth
Another sign of a dying strawberry plant is wilting and stunted growth. The plant may not be growing as quickly or as tall as it should, and the leaves may start to curl or wilt.
This could be a sign of a lack of water or nutrients, or it could be a sign of a pest infestation or disease. It’s important to check the soil moisture levels and examine the plant closely to determine the cause of the problem.
Holes and Infestation
Finally, if you notice holes in the leaves or fruit, or if you see signs of insect infestation, this could be a sign of a dying strawberry plant. Pests like slugs, snails, and aphids can quickly damage a plant and cause it to decline. It’s important to take action quickly to remove the pests and prevent further damage.
Dying Strawberry Plant – 3 Common Problems
When strawberry plants start to wilt or die, it can be frustrating for gardeners who have put in time and effort to cultivate them. There are several reasons why a strawberry plant may be dying, including disease and pests, poor soil and water conditions, and environmental stress.
1. Disease and Pests
One of the most common reasons for a dying strawberry plant is disease and pests. Diseases such as crown rot, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt can cause a strawberry plant to wilt and die. Pests such as slugs, aphids, and spider mites can also damage the plant and cause it to die.
To prevent disease and pests, gardeners should ensure that their strawberry plants are planted in well-draining soil and receive adequate sunlight. They should also monitor their plants regularly for signs of disease or pest infestations and take appropriate action if necessary.
2. Poor Soil and Water Conditions
Another reason for a dying strawberry plant is poor soil and water conditions. If the soil is too dry or too wet, the plant may not be able to absorb the nutrients it needs to survive. Similarly, if the soil is too acidic or alkaline, the plant may not be able to absorb the nutrients it needs.
To prevent poor soil and water conditions, gardeners should ensure that their strawberry plants are planted in well-draining soil and receive adequate water. They should also test the soil regularly to ensure that it is at the appropriate pH level for strawberry plants.
3. Environmental Stress
Environmental stress is another reason for a dying strawberry plant. This can be caused by drought, temperature fluctuations, frost, overwatering, or underwatering. When a strawberry plant is exposed to these stressors, it may not be able to absorb the nutrients it needs to survive.
To prevent environmental stress, gardeners should ensure that their strawberry plants are planted in an area that receives adequate sunlight and is protected from extreme weather conditions. They should also ensure that their plants receive adequate water and are not over or underwatered.
Preventing Strawberry Plant Health Issues
Strawberry plants are susceptible to a range of health issues, including pests, diseases, and improper care. To keep your strawberry plants healthy and thriving, it’s important to take preventative measures that address the most common issues. Here are some tips to help prevent strawberry plant health issues:
1. Proper Watering
Improper watering is a common cause of strawberry plant health issues. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plants to wilt and die. To prevent these issues, it’s important to water your strawberry plants properly.
One way to ensure proper watering is to use drip irrigation. This method delivers water directly to the roots, which helps prevent overwatering and underwatering. You can also check the soil moisture level regularly and adjust your watering schedule as needed.
2. Soil and Fertilization
Strawberry plants require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or manure. The soil should also have a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, it can affect the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients.
To maintain healthy soil, it’s important to fertilize your strawberry plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer. This will provide the plants with the nutrients they need to grow and produce fruit. You can also add mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
3. Pest and Disease Control
Pests and diseases can quickly damage or kill strawberry plants. To prevent these issues, it’s important to inspect your plants regularly for signs of damage or infestation. You can also take preventative measures, such as using insecticidal soap or neem oil to deter pests.
If you notice signs of disease, such as yellowing or spotted leaves, it’s important to take action immediately. This may involve removing infected plants or treating them with fungicides. It’s also important to practice good garden hygiene, such as cleaning up fallen leaves and debris, to prevent the spread of disease.
Reviving a Dying Strawberry Plant
When a strawberry plant starts to wilt and die, it can be a frustrating experience for gardeners. However, there are ways to revive a dying strawberry plant and bring it back to its former glory. In this section, we will discuss the steps to revive a dying strawberry plant.
1. Pruning and Treatment
One of the first steps to revive a dying strawberry plant is to prune it. Pruning helps to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant, which can prevent the spread of disease.
Use pruning shears to cut off any dead or brown leaves, stems, or flowers. It is important to sterilize the pruning shears before and after use to prevent the spread of disease.
After pruning, the plant may need treatment to address any underlying issues. If the plant is suffering from overwatering, it may be necessary to reduce the amount of water it receives. On the other hand, if the plant is suffering from underwatering, it may need to be watered more frequently.
In addition, if the plant is suffering from a fungal disease, a fungicide may be necessary to treat the issue. For pest infestations, neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to control the pests.
2. Soil and Water Adjustment
The soil and water conditions can also play a significant role in the health of a strawberry plant. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, it can affect the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients. The ideal soil pH for strawberry plants is between 6 and 6.5. If the soil pH is too low, add lime to raise it. If it is too high, add sulfur to lower it.
In addition, the plant may need adjustments to its watering schedule. If the plant is suffering from overwatering, it may need to be watered less frequently. If it is suffering from underwatering, it may need to be watered more frequently. It is important to water the plant deeply, but not too often.
3. Pest and Disease Management
Pests and diseases can also be a common issue for strawberry plants. Some common pests that can affect strawberry plants include spider mites, aphids, and slugs. To prevent pest infestations, it is important to keep the garden area clean and free of debris.
For disease management, it is important to practice good sanitation practices. Remove any dead or diseased plant material and dispose of it properly. In addition, it may be necessary to treat the plant with a fungicide or other treatment to address the issue.
Growing Healthy Strawberry Plants
Growing healthy strawberry plants requires careful consideration of several factors, including choosing the right location, proper planting and care, and maximizing harvest and yield. In this section, we will explore each of these factors in detail.
1. Choosing the Right Location
The first step in growing healthy strawberry plants is choosing the right location. Strawberries require ample sunlight, so it is important to select a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, strawberries prefer well-draining soil, so it is important to avoid areas that are prone to standing water.
If growing strawberries in containers or pots, choose a container made of clay or other porous material, as this will allow for proper drainage. When planting outdoors, it is important to ensure that the soil is rich in nutrients and organic matter to promote healthy growth and production.
2. Planting and Care
When planting strawberries, it is important to space plants properly to allow for healthy growth and runners. Plant strawberries 12-18 inches apart, with rows spaced 2-3 feet apart. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Proper care is also essential for healthy strawberry plants. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and production.
3. Harvest and Yield
To maximize harvest and yield, it is important to harvest strawberries at the peak of ripeness. Look for bright red, plump berries with a sweet aroma. To avoid damaging the plants, gently twist the berry off the stem, rather than pulling it.
With proper care and attention to location, planting, and harvest, it is possible to grow healthy strawberry plants with high yields and delicious fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you revive a wilting strawberry plant?
If your strawberry plant is wilting, it may be due to underwatering or overwatering. To revive it, make sure it is getting the right amount of water. Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle.
If it feels dry, water the plant deeply. If the soil is still moist, hold off on watering. Additionally, make sure the plant is getting enough sunlight and nutrients. You can also try adding organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and soil fertility.
Will a strawberry plant recover after dying?
If a strawberry plant is completely dead, it cannot be revived. However, if it is just wilting or has brown leaves, it may be possible to revive it by addressing the underlying issue, such as overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
What causes crown rot in strawberry plants?
Crown rot in strawberry plants is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil conditions. It can lead to wilted leaves, discolored stems, and eventually plant death.
To prevent crown rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Additionally, remove any infected plants and debris from the soil to prevent the spread of the fungus.
What are the signs of an overwatered strawberry plant?
Overwatering can cause root rot in strawberry plants, which can lead to wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. The soil may also have a sour smell and be waterlogged. To prevent overwatering, make sure the soil is well-draining and only water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Why are my strawberry leaves turning brown?
Strawberry leaves may turn brown due to a variety of reasons, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, pests, or disease. To determine the cause, check the soil moisture level and inspect the leaves for signs of pests or disease. Adjust watering and fertilization as needed and remove any infected leaves or plants.
How can I prevent my strawberry plants from dying after winter?
To prevent strawberry plants from dying after winter, make sure they are properly mulched and protected from frost. Additionally, prune any dead or damaged leaves and stems in the fall to promote healthy growth in the spring. Finally, make sure the soil is well-draining and amend it with organic matter to improve soil fertility.

Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below