The cultivation of strawberries in your garden is a desire shared by many, thanks to the sweetness and unmistakable flavor of this summer fruit. However, to achieve an abundant and delicious harvest, it is essential to know the right timing and the appropriate techniques . March represents a crucial moment: planting in this month allows young strawberry plants to develop a strong root system, ready to support a generous flowering as soon as temperatures become warmer. What are the secrets to optimally prepare the soil, choose the best varieties, and ensure the necessary care during growth? Continue reading to discover how to ensure your garden produces succulent strawberries and to obtain all the winner tips for a successful harvest!
The essentials in a few points
- 🌱 Plant in March for optimal rooting and a harvest in June.
- 🥇 Selection of soil : clean, aerated, and enriched for lush strawberries.
- ☀️ Sunny location : Well-drained with slightly acidic pH.
- 🚰 Maintenance : mulching, irrigation, and pest control.
- 🍓 Varieties : Choose between non-remontant strawberries like Gariguette and remontant ones like Mara des Bois.
Effective method for strawberry cultivation
Cultivating strawberries at the right time and with the right technique allows for a generous harvest in just a few months. By planting them in March, you give the plants the necessary time to root well and produce delicious strawberries by early summer.
The importance of the March period for strawberries
Planting strawberries in March is an excellent strategy to ensure an abundant and flavorful harvest as early as June. This month offers ideal conditions for the plants’ rooting since the soil begins to warm up while maintaining sufficient moisture.These conditions allow strawberries to establish themselves well before the arrival of the first summer heat, thus ensuring optimal flowering and fruiting.
Benefits of planting in March
Better rooting: young plants have time to develop a solid root system, allowing them to better withstand periods of drought and produce sweet fruit. Increased resistance to diseases: stronger plants are better equipped against pest and fungal attacks.Faster first harvest: it will be possible to harvest the first strawberries as early as May and June, or even earlier depending on the varieties.
Soil preparation
Before planting strawberries, it is essential to properly prepare the soil . Here are the main steps to follow for a successful crop:
The ideal time for spring cleaning: organize better without wasting time
Site preparation
To allow strawberries to thrive, the soil must be well prepared. Here’s how to proceed:Cleaning: remove weeds, roots, and plant debris that could compete with the plants. Aeration: till to a depth of about 20 cm to ensure good aeration and facilitate rooting.Enrichment: incorporate well-matured compost or an organic fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus, essential elements for the good development of strawberries.
Location selection
Strawberries prefer a sunny and well-drained location. Avoid areas exposed to wind or cold, as the rhizome of strawberries is sensitive to frost. The soil should be loose and rich in humus, with a slightly acidic pH, between 5.5 and 6.5.
Planting procedure
Once the soil is ready, it’s time to plant the strawberries. Here are the steps to follow:
Plant selection
Prefer healthy and vigorous plants from a trusted nursery. Choose varieties suited to the local climate and personal preferences, such as remontant or non-remontant varieties.
Spacing and planting
Spacing: plant each strawberry at a distance of 30-40 cm, with rows spaced about 40 cm apart for good air circulation and to limit diseases. Positioning: place the plant carefully so as not to bury the crown; this transition area between the roots and leaves should remain at soil level. Irrigation: slightly compact the soil around the base and water thoroughly to encourage establishment.
Care for strawberries
To maximize the production of strawberries, it is necessary to follow a few simple steps:
Mulching and moisture
Mulching: spread a layer of straw , wood chips, or dead leaves around the strawberries to limit weed growth and retain soil moisture. Regular irrigation: water regularly, especially in the first weeks after planting, but without overdoing it to avoid fungal diseases.
Pest control
Check for pests such as slugs and aphids. Use natural repellents like ash, eggshells, or nettle macerate to keep them away.
Strawberry varieties
Choosing the right variety is essential for a good harvest. Here are some popular options:
Non-remontant varieties
These varieties produce only once a year, usually in May-June. Gariguette is a variety appreciated for its sweet and tangy flavor.
Remontant varieties
These varieties offer multiple waves of production, from spring until autumn. Mara des Bois is a reference in this category, with its unique aroma reminiscent of wild strawberries.Planting strawberries in March is an excellent decision to enjoy a generous and flavorful harvest as early as June. By following these tips, you will have every chance on your side to savor delicious homegrown strawberries all summer long.Don’t forget to properly prepare the soil , choose the right varieties, and maintain regular care to maximize your production.
