How to Control Strawberry Leafrollers Naturally

Strawberry leafrollers are a common pest that can cause significant damage to strawberry plants. These pests can be difficult to control, but there are natural methods you can use to keep them at bay. Here are some effective ways to control strawberry leafrollers without harming the environment.

Understanding Strawberry Leafrollers

Before we dive into controlling strawberry leafrollers, it's important to understand their life cycle and habits. These pests are small caterpillars that feed on strawberry leaves, causing extensive damage to the plant. The adult moth lays its eggs in early spring, and the caterpillars emerge shortly after. They then feed on the leaves for several weeks before pupating and turning into adult moths.

Strawberry leafrollers can be difficult to spot because they blend in with the leaves and are active at night. However, if left unchecked, they can cause significant damage to your strawberry plants.

Encourage Natural Predators

One of the best ways to control strawberry leafrollers is to encourage natural predators like birds and beneficial insects. Birds like blue jays and robins feed on the adult moths, while beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps and lacewings prey on the caterpillars.

You can attract these predators to your garden by planting native flowers and providing nesting boxes and bird feeders. You can also purchase beneficial insects from a garden supply store and release them in your garden.

Use Row Covers

Another effective method to control strawberry leafrollers is to use row covers. These covers are made from lightweight fabric and are placed over the strawberry plants to prevent the adult moths from laying their eggs on the leaves.

Row covers should be installed before the adult moths begin to lay their eggs in early spring. Be sure to secure the edges of the covers with soil or rocks to prevent the moths from getting underneath.

Handpick Caterpillars

If you only have a few strawberry plants, handpicking the caterpillars can be an effective way to control them. Check your plants regularly for signs of leafroller damage and look for the small green caterpillars on the underside of the leaves.

Gently remove the caterpillars and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. This method may not be practical if you have a large strawberry patch, but it can be effective for small gardens.

Apply Bacillus Thuringiensis

If you prefer a more targeted approach, you can apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to your strawberry plants. Bt is a natural bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars and is safe for other beneficial insects.

To use Bt, mix the recommended amount with water and spray it on your strawberry plants. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying during windy conditions.

Controlling strawberry leafrollers naturally takes a bit of effort, but it's worth it to protect your plants and the environment. By encouraging natural predators, using row covers, handpicking caterpillars, and applying Bt, you can keep these pests under control without resorting to harmful chemicals.

A blue jay bird, one of the natural predators of strawberry leafrollers.

A healthy strawberry plant with no signs of leafroller damage.

A lacewing, a beneficial insect that preys on caterpillars.

predatory birds, beneficial insects, row covers, Bacillus thuringiensis