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 Strawberry Runners, who supplied the plants from Stanthorpe, the QSGA, and individual growers, have separately sent samples away for testing, which is being paid for by the propagator.
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