Efficient fertilization of strawberries throughout the season increases yield

There is only one way to achieve maximum harvest. You must provide strawberries with proper care and nutrients throughout the summer season. Spring care is of particular importance, including fertilization. If you use correct fertilizers you are setting yourself for a excellent harvest and you are supporting a development of healthy and strong plants.

Strawberries need the right amount of macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Phosphorus is essential for proper development of a strong root system which directly affects the taste and size of strawberries.

Suitable fertilizers

Phosphorus is a an important macronutrient at all stages of development, but especially at the beginning of the growing season (i.e. early spring). A lack of phosphorus reduces yields and also sugar content and therefore your strawberries will be less sweet.

Photo: Pixabay

Nitrogen is essential for green mass and the overall health of the plant. However, too much nitrogen will force the plant to grow leaves at the expense of fruit.

When and how to fertilize

The first fertilization should be applied in early spring. At this time, the plant needs nitrogen to form leaves and shoots . Remove any winter cover you used to protect the bed, or after you removed weeds and loosen the soil.

The second fertilizing comes during the “budding” phase, that is, before the formation of flowers. At this time you should apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers and the third fertilizing should be applied during flowering. Potassium and phosphorus fertilizers are suitable at this time. The fourth (last) fertilization is done in summer or autumn (late August or early September at the latest). Use potassium and phosphorus fertilizers.

Source: https://www.jenzeny.cz/domacnost/hnojeni-jahod-kdy-a-cim-hnojit-abyste-meli-bohatou-sklizen, https://chalupari-zahradkari.cz/uzitkova-zahrada/recept-hnojeni-jahod/

Preview photo: Pixabay