Preparation
Strawberries require a sunny location with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-drained to avoid waterlogging or mold growth.
Loosen the soil to a depth of about 20-30 cm and then remove weeds, stones and other debris.
Strawberries prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 5.5 and 7.0). Compost or well-rotted manure increases soil fertility.
planting
It's best to choose varieties that are suited to the prevailing climate. There are early-, mid-, and late-ripening varieties, as well as ever-bearing varieties that bear fruit throughout the summer.
Healthy and vigorous young plants from a trusted dealer are recommended. Avoid plants showing signs of disease or pests.
Plant strawberries in spring or fall, depending on your climate. Early spring is ideal in colder regions, while fall is best in warmer areas.
A distance of about 30-45 cm between plants and 60-90 cm between rows should be maintained to ensure good air circulation and growing space.
Dig a hole large enough for the roots to spread. Plant the plant so that the crown (the point where the roots and stems meet), also called the heart, is level with the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil and gently firm it down.
Care
The plants should be kept evenly moist, especially in the first few weeks after planting and during fruit formation.
Place mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and prevent disease. Straw, for example, is suitable for this.
Tip: Use the strawberry mat from HaGa-Welt as mulch. It works similarly to straw. It's made from coconut fibers, suppresses weed growth, and can be reused the following year.
A balanced strawberry fertilizer should be applied in spring. Be careful not to use fertilizer that is too high in nitrogen, as this can promote leaf growth at the expense of the fruit.
Remove wilted leaves and cut off runners to focus energy on fruit production.
Harvesting and post-processing
Watch for signs of pests and diseases. If necessary, appropriate measures can be taken, such as the use of natural predators or biological control agents.
When the strawberries are fully red and ripe, they're ready to harvest. Picking is best done early in the morning while the fruit is still cool.
The foliage should be cut back after the last harvest, leaving the crowns intact. This promotes plant health and fruit production next year. Please note that strawberry plants are sensitive to frost.
Adding compost or other organic fertilizers prepares the soil for the next year.
Good luck with your gardening!
