Cultivar- and region-specific incidence of major strawberry viruses in Korea

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) is susceptible to viral disease accumulation due to its vegetative propagation through runners. This study evaluated the incidence and distribution of major strawberry viruses in Korea at both the cultivar and regional levels. We collected 333 leaf samples from three commercial cultivars (‘Seolhyang,’ ‘Kuemsil,’ and ‘King’s Berry’) across four major strawberry-producing regions between November 2023 and February 2024. The samples were analysed using standardized singleplex RT-PCR assays targeting nine strawberry viruses. Overall, the incidence of viruses was low, with Strawberry mottle virus (SMoV) detected in 4.2% of samples and Strawberry mild yellow edge virus (SMYEV) in 2.7%. Strawberry necrotic shock virus (SNSV) and Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV) were found sporadically, while the other viruses were not detected. The ‘King’s Berry’ cultivar exhibited the highest infection rate, with mixed infections occurring more frequently in this variety. Regional variations in virus incidence correlated with cultivation density and management practices. These findings suggest that while strawberry virus occurrence in Korea remains limited, it varies by cultivar and region, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring - particularly of SMoV and SMYEV - as part of virus management programs.