Weed killer usable on strawberries?

Question

I have a strawberry bed that was planted last year and weeds have taken over horribly. Thistles, tiny clover like things and grass. Is there any chemical that is safe to use on strawberries. If so, what...and when to apply? Thanks.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, there are no post-emergent herbicides available for control in and around established plantings of strawberries. However, here are a few suggestions you might want to consider that would reduce your ongoing weed problem;

1) Try using a dark plastic mulch to prevent weeds from germinating. Pull the existing weeds and then place your drip system under the plastic. You'll need to cut holes to slip your strawberry plants through.

I'd advise that you place a slow-release fertilizer around the base of your strawberries at this time. The plastic will help prevent your berries from coming in contact with the soil and reduce rotting.

This is the practice most organic and conventional growers are using to eliminate the need for herbicides.

2) The use of straw mulch can be used as well. Place at least 2 or 3 inches of straw around your strawberry plants to prevent weeds from germinating. Drip irrigation should be placed under the straw.

The drawback to this method is that the straw harbors slugs, snails, earwigs and other insects.

3) There is a pre-emergent herbicide that is used in commercial strawberry production that has the active ingredient; DCPA (sold as Dacthal). It should be applied immediately AFTER your strawberries have been planted so this is something you may want to consider when you re-plant.

The drawback to this herbicide is that it does a good job controlling many of your grassy-types of weeds but does a fair job on broad-leaved weeds.

Hope you find this information useful. GOOD LUCK!

-Certified Professional Crop Consultant with over 30 years of experience and a Degree in Plant Science

Answer 2

The only thing you can do safely is roll up your sleeves and start pulling weeds. Then put a bedding down around all the plants, We use straw about 3 inches thick. It has helped control the weeds considerably, and it gives you healthier strawberries because it keeps them off the dirt and retains moisture.

Answer 3

'Fraid not. Anything that will kill the grass and weeds will certainly get the strawberries.

Unless the strawberries are perenials (like "Alpine"), I'd just rip out the whole patch, rototil, and replant bare root in the fall. Next time, keep up with the weeds, if you can.

Answer 4

Usually very expensive ag weed killers are used on crops such as strawberries.
I think the best reason to grow your own is because it is chemical free and organic right?
Good luck with that!

Answer 5

I think this is a senario in which the phrase "an once of prevention is worth a pound of cure" sorry man, no easy options on this one, get out the gradening gloves it's going to be a dirty tough job

Answer 6

If you plan on eating your strawberries, I would consult someone at your local plant nursery......But you can also put down some of that weed barrier stuff......