Australia: Unexplained mass death of strawberry plants may add to price increases

Queensland strawberry farmers are counting the costs after half a million young plants died soon after being purchased and planted. Queensland Strawberry Growers Association President (QSGA) Adrian Schultz said the cause was still a mystery. "We're seeing 100 percent death rates of a particular variety; the investigations are ongoing as to the reasons for that," Mr. Schultz said. "Half a million plants have died as a result of whatever has happened." Mr. Schultz said the juvenile plants, known in the industry as runners, were worth between 45 and 55 cents each. Sweets ...