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Dreaming of juicy strawberries all year long?
It’s possible with everbearing strawberries!
In this article, we’ll share 10 simple tactics to help you grow them successfully.
From planting to harvesting, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to enjoy fresh strawberries anytime?
Let’s get started!
Choose The Right Variety
There are different types of everbearing strawberries out there. Some popular varieties include Ozark Beauty, Quinault, and Seascape.
Do a bit of research to see which one suits your growing conditions. Some might be better for drier climates while others might thrive in cooler temps.
Choose wisely and you’ll have a bountiful harvest all season long.
Prepare The Soil
Strawberries love well-drained, fertile soil. Make sure to mix in compost or aged manure to boost nutrients.
You’ll want to aim for slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Good soil preparation can make all the difference, so don’t skip this step!
Plant At The Right Time
The best time to plant everbearing strawberries is during early spring or late fall, depending on where you live. Planting at the right time gives them a strong start.
Be sure to space them out about 12-18 inches apart to give them room to grow.
Water Regularly
Strawberries need about an inch of water each week. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Too much water can cause root rot, so it’s a delicate balance. Drip irrigation or a soaker hose can help maintain consistent moisture levels.
Mulch For Protection
Adding a layer of mulch, like straw or pine needles, can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay. It also protects the berries from getting dirty and reduces the risk of pests and diseases.
Plus, mulch keeps the roots cool during hot summer days.
Feed Your Plants
Everbearing strawberries benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer or a slow-release organic option to keep them happy.
Apply fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and again when they start producing berries. This will ensure a steady supply of nutrients.
Pinch The First Flowers
It might seem counterintuitive, but pinching off the first set of flowers can encourage stronger root growth. This little trick can lead to a bigger, healthier crop later on.
You’ll be sacrificing a few early berries, but the payoff will be worth it.
Watch For Pests and Diseases
Familiarize yourself with common strawberry pests like slugs, aphids, and spider mites. Diseases can also affect your plants, so keep an eye out for signs of trouble, like yellowing leaves or mildew.
Early detection and treatment can save your crop.
Harvest Regularly
Everbearing strawberries produce fruit in cycles throughout the growing season. Regular harvesting encourages more fruit to develop.
Pick berries as soon as they are fully red and ripe. Frequent harvesting can also help reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
Overwinter Your Plants
In colder climates, your everbearing strawberries will need some protection during winter. Cover the plants with straw or a row cover to insulate them.
This extra step can help them survive the winter and come back strong in the spring.