Strawberry crown moth

Strawberry crown moth larvae tunnel into the crowns and roots of strawberry plants and certain woody hosts, though documentation on western Washington occurrence is limited. Look for wilting or dying crowns, sawdust-like frass at the base of plants, and small entrance holes. Host records list Mediterranean plants like strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) in Pacific Northwest gardens.

Monitor plant crowns regularly for signs of larval activity. Remove and destroy infested plants to prevent spread. Since this pest is uncommon in western Washington, no large-scale control strategy is standard. Maintain healthy plant vigor to support recovery from minor infestations. Avoid moving infested stock between plantings.