Evaluation of Synthetic and Biorational Products for Charcoal Rot Management in Annual Strawberry in Florida, 2024–2025

Charcoal rot, caused by Macrophomina phaseolina, is a major soilborne disease of strawberry in Florida causing major economic losses to growers. Typical symptoms affect the crown by causing a reddish-brown discoloration, leading to plant wilt and collapse. This trial evaluated the efficacy of biological and synthetic products, applied by drip or drench, for the management of charcoal rot. The transplants of ‘Florida Medallion’ were obtained from a California nursery. Over 16 weeks, marketable yield and disease incidence data were collected. Our results will assist Florida strawberry growers in improving disease management programs.