Spring care for strawberry plants. How to identify unusable ones

Spring is here, and besides planting all kinds of crops, it’s worth checking out some of the ones we already have in our gardens. Strawberries are a typical example. Taking care of them is a must. In fact, it is often enough to just look with the naked eye to see that many plants cannot do without help. In the following lines, we will focus on what needs to be done with strawberry plants in the spring so that they thrive throughout the season and we can enjoy a great harvest.

How to recognize dead, poor-quality strawberry plants

Often at first glance. Just look at the center of the plant. If it is brown and withered, it is quite clear. The plant is most likely dead and should be discarded immediately. Similarly, you can identify stunted plants, which are typically characterized by deformed leaves. These can also be recognized after winter. Many plants can be easily pulled out of the ground. This makes it clear that they are rotten. This problem is caused by root and crown rot.

Cleaning strawberry plants as a basis

First and foremost, it is necessary to remove brown and diseased leaves from strawberry plants. These are a traditional source of disease and many pests. The strawberry mite is typical in this regard. Be careful not to damage the central heart, as this would mean the death of the strawberry plant.

Weeds must be removed from the bed

Definitely. All weeds are already sprouting and cannot be left in the bed. In addition, the soil around the strawberry plants themselves should be loosened. All you need to do is take a hand-held loosening tool similar to a small hoe and lightly rake the soil. This will help the strawberry plants a lot.

Photo: Radek Štěpán

Fertilization needs to be replaced gradually

First, we should use nitrogen-containing fertilizers that stimulate the growth of strawberry plants. Next, we need to give the fruit strength, so we use fertilizers containing potassium and phosphorus. For example, chicken manure or the classic Kristalon fertilizer designed for strawberry plants.

Mulching pays off

Definitely. Just because weeds won’t grow among the strawberries. You can mulch with various materials. We use a lot of straw, but often cut grass is sufficient. You can also choose wood chips. Ripe strawberries will not get dirty and are not as susceptible to rot or mold.

Photo: Pixabay

Tip: Mulching on slopes. It’s also worth doing.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about caring for strawberry plants in March

How can you tell if a strawberry plant is dead?

By their brown and withered hearts.

What needs to be addressed first?

Removing the brown parts of the strawberry plants.

How to mulch a strawberry patch?

Use straw, cut grass, or wood chips.

Sources of information: Author-grower

Preview photo: Pixabay