Knowledgebase

Pest ID #870799

Asked May 30, 2024, 3:38 PM EDT

I have a worm like pest that attacks my strawberries. It eats only fruit that has ripened and that is touching soil, especially when the soil is moist. See attached photo.

Lane County Oregon

Expert Response

Not a worm, a millipede. Millipedes are attracted to decaying plant material and to moisture. They will damage seedlings and other soft growth, such as strawberries, although damage is usually initiated by other animals such or by decomposition of the part of the fruit in contact with moist soil. Putting a dry mulch around the base of the plant can largely deter this sort of damage.
Patricia Patterson Replied June 04, 2024, 9:43 PM EDT

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