en.Wedoany.com Reported - A survey by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) shows that Brazil's strawberry cultivation area continues to expand in 2026, with national production estimated at around 200,000 tons, a year-on-year increase of 2.6%. This growth is attributed to improved productivity and increased technological application, especially in traditional producing regions such as Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Sul.

However, the cultivation industry faces climate challenges. Unseasonal high-temperature events disrupt crop development and production cycles. The strawberry planting period in some Brazilian producing regions typically runs from mid-April to the end of May, but climate change may lead to harvest fluctuations.

Phytosanitary management remains key to the sustainability of strawberry cultivation. The root aphid (Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominale) is one of the main threats, difficult to control due to its underground activity and often delayed diagnosis. This pest sucks sap from the roots, causing leaf yellowing, reduced vigor, growth stagnation, and in severe cases, plant death. During dry periods, water stress can exacerbate the infestation. Root aphid populations are mainly female, with nymphs and adults continuously feeding and injecting toxins, further damaging the root system.

Fábio Kagi, Regulatory Affairs Manager at the National Union of the Plant Protection Products Industry (Sindiveg), points out that root aphids not only directly suck sap but also transmit the strawberry mottle virus, significantly amplifying losses. He recommends an integrated control strategy: "Use natural enemies, balance soil nutrition, and avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, as it easily induces pest outbreaks. Chemical control must be based on monitoring, using insecticides during the fruiting and harvesting periods, while other pesticides can be applied in different cycles, but must follow technical recommendations and appropriate timing." Kagi emphasizes that the development of strawberry cultivation in Brazil depends on good management practices; producers must use pesticides correctly and safely, avoiding losses and ensuring product quality through continuous monitoring and integrated plant protection tools.

This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com