Ideberries.com - Planting strawberries can be a great leisure time. We have several options and techniques to apply. We can use strawberry seeds and bare roots to start growing strawberry.
It is possible to get bare root strawberry plants. However, might want to know how to store and plant the bare roots. The truth is that is easier to plant the bare roots. Besides, nurseries usually prefer selling the bare roots for its easier shipping.
Strawberry was initially undestimated until the native Americans include the berries in bread and cakes. Later on, because of the sweet-sour taste and unique smell, strawberries are admired for various kinds of dishes. Besides, strawberry is rich in vitamin C. Consuming strawberries are proven to be effective in reducing the symptoms of flu.
 |
| Photo by Aces.edu |
The cool breeze of spring will feel so tasty with the crisp and red strawberries. Besides, all home made foods with fresh strawberry will give a good source of energy. But first of all, we need to know how to plant strawberries.
For begginers, planting bare root strawberry plants is a good option to take. Bare root is an agricultural method to use the root to grow a plant.
While the plants are in dormant states, they are removed from the soil. This makes the root healthy and strong enough for the new soil. All soil conditions will not be troublesome for the bare roots.
Thus, we can start growing the bare root of strawberries with no hardship. Indeed, we will need to wait for the right season. Yet, this method of growing is totally easy and cheap. We can get the bare root strawberry plants only for $1 each.
Strawberry is perrenial plant. The plant is a type of overwinter. Also, it should be grown in an area in our lawn that receives sufficient sun. We can grow it in our garden outside the normal crop rotation. Also, strawberries will produce baby plants on runners.
How to Plant Bare Root Strawberry Plants:
1. Select the Best Strawberry Variety
The first stage is to prepare our bare root variety. We will not mistaken strawberries to the other berries due to the pretty look. However, there are actually many types of strawberries to choose from.
It is good to pick strawberry variety that can fruit all season long. Here are the varieties that are recommended by professional agriculture site:
- Seascape: This is the type of strawberry that has sweet and juicy fruit.
- Aromas: This is the strawberry variant that has good quality pest-resistance.
- Tri-star: This is a pretty variety that will look cool for small spaces. We can even plant this type of strawberry in containers.
- Tribute: This type of strawberry is simply tasty.
2. Patching
After choosing the strawberry variant, we need to get ready for filling the patch. Each plant of strawberry will produce a good amount of fruit. Yet, it rewuies a fair size of space. Therefore, it is rcommended that we plant 4-10 plants in our strawberry patch.
Before planting, we have to inspect the plants. It is crucial to choose the one with healthy crown. Besides, we need to select the plant with strong roots.
Next, we have to trim the roots. It will be good to trim at least 5 inches from the crown. In order to give sufficient moisture, we have to soak the plants well.
3. Prepare the Soil
Bare root strawberry plants need alot of sun. Besides, it requires good quality soil that is well-drained. For the best result, we also need to raise the beds.
We need to improve the soil quality by mixing it with organic materials. We can use foods or worm compost to enrich the soil. If possible, we need to set the pH of the soil into 5.8 to 6.5.
Before starting to plant, we need to be sure that we loosen the soil well with a trowel. We must not stepping on the soil. When we step our feet on the soil, it will be compressed and bad for bare root strawberry. We need to keep the soil moist all the time.
For a more efficient result, we can plant the root with zigzag technique. Besides the right planting method, we need to do mulching, feeding, and maintenance well to the bare root strawberry plants.
Planting Bare Root Strawberries in Fall
Planting bare root strawberries in the fall can be a great way to establish healthy plants that will produce a bountiful harvest in the following spring and summer. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:
- Timing: The ideal time to plant bare root strawberries in the fall is about 4 to 6 weeks before the ground freezes in your area. This timing allows the plants to establish their roots before winter dormancy.
- Site selection: Choose a sunny location for your strawberry bed that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions, as strawberries dislike soggy roots.
- Soil preparation: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. Work in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.
- Soaking the bare roots: Fill a container with water and soak the bare root strawberry plants for about 1-2 hours before planting. This rehydrates the roots and promotes better establishment.
- Planting spacing: Dig holes that are wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots without crowding or bending them. Space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart, with rows spaced approximately 2 to 3 feet apart.
- Planting depth: Place each bare root plant into its hole, ensuring that the crown (the point where the leaves emerge) sits at or slightly above the soil level. Adjust the hole depth accordingly, as planting too deep can lead to crown rot.
- Backfilling and firming: Gently fill the hole with soil, taking care not to damage the roots. Firm the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets but avoid compacting it excessively.
- Watering: After planting, water the strawberry plants thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture for root establishment. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the fall season.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the plants. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppresses weeds, and protects the plants' roots during winter.
- Winter care: As winter approaches, protect your newly planted bare root strawberries from extreme cold by covering them with a layer of straw or frost cloth. This insulates the plants and prevents winter damage.
Read: How to Make Strawberry Puree: For Tastier Homemade Desserts
Remember to monitor your strawberry plants throughout the fall and winter, providing additional water if necessary and ensuring they remain protected from harsh conditions. In the spring, remove the winter cover and resume regular care, such as watering, fertilizing, and controlling pests or diseases, to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
