Strawberries
Strawberries are said to hold the true taste of a British summer and are an excellent plant to grow in any garden and especially so when
gardening with children. Excellent when grown in beds, borders,
containers and
hanging baskets, strawberries will produce succulent red fruits which are perfect in desserts or eaten fresh from the plant. If you would like to grow your strawberry plants from seed please view our
seed selection.
How to grow
As you are receiving plants that have already started growing all that is left to do is find the right spot for them and keep up with regular maintenance, which will help to ensure you harvest the maximum crop possible.
Position
Strawberries are true sun lovers and as such will require a position in full sun. Other considerations include protection from frost, cold spells and shelter from winds. This can be achieved by housing your strawberries in a
greenhouse,
polytunnel or a
cloche.
Soil
A fertile and well-drained soil is suitable for growing strawberries. By preparing the planting area in advance your strawberries will get off to the best start possible. Dig soil to a spades depth and incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose
compost. This will help to retain moisture and improve drainage.
Care
Strawberries will require protection from cold weather early on in the season. An application of
fertiliser on planting and regularly after this point will help to provide essential nutrients and promote strong growth. Ensure plants are watered well and do not dry out. An
irrigation system will help to provide a regular supply of water to plants which will translate to large and succulent fruit.
Harvesting
Pick fruits when they are plump and uniformly red in colour. Remove fruits with your thumb and forefinger by breaking the stem.
Top Tip
Cover plants with
netting or grow under cover in a
fruit cage or greenhouse to reduce the effects of pests that may feast on fruits.