Troubleshooting
Mara des Bois Strawberry problems — and how to fix them
Mara des Bois Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa 'Mara des Bois') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Ripe fruits are susceptible in wet weather. Remove infected berries promptly, improve air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. A fungicide spray may be needed in persistently wet seasons.
Slugs and snails
A common pest on ripe fruit and young leaves. Use copper tape around containers, lay grit around plants, or apply organic slug pellets (ferric phosphate). Harvest ripe fruit promptly.
Powdery mildew
White powdery coating on leaves in dry, warm conditions. Ensure plants are not water-stressed; improve airflow. Remove severely affected leaves. Generally not severe on this highly resistant variety.
Prevent mara des bois strawberry problems before they start
Most mara des bois strawberry issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Mara des Bois Strawberry problems — FAQ
Why is my mara des bois strawberry botrytis (grey mould)?
Ripe fruits are susceptible in wet weather. Remove infected berries promptly, improve air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. A fungicide spray may be needed in persistently wet seasons.
Why is my mara des bois strawberry slugs and snails?
A common pest on ripe fruit and young leaves. Use copper tape around containers, lay grit around plants, or apply organic slug pellets (ferric phosphate). Harvest ripe fruit promptly.
Why is my mara des bois strawberry powdery mildew?
White powdery coating on leaves in dry, warm conditions. Ensure plants are not water-stressed; improve airflow. Remove severely affected leaves. Generally not severe on this highly resistant variety.