Everbearing Strawberry

Planting Everbearing Strawberries

To plant everbearing strawberries, follow these steps:

• Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
• Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.
• Space plants 18 inches apart in rows that are 4 feet apart.
• Dig holes just deep enough for the roots to be covered when planted.
• Set the strawberry plants in the holes and spread out the roots.
• Cover the roots with soil, ensuring the crown is at soil level and not buried.
• Water the plants thoroughly after planting.

Care and Maintenance

For ongoing care of everbearing strawberries:

• Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Apply straw mulch to conserve moisture, reduce weeds, and keep fruit clean.
• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer after planting and again in midsummer.
• Remove runners to focus the plant's energy on fruit production.
• Protect from birds with netting if necessary.

Pollination

Strawberries are self-fertile, but attracting pollinators like bees will improve yield:

• Plant flowers nearby to attract pollinators.
• Avoid using pesticides that can harm bees.

Harvesting

To harvest strawberries:

• Pick berries when they are fully red and have a fragrant smell.
• Harvest in the morning when the fruit is cool.
• Gently twist the berries off the stem to avoid bruising.
• Enjoy fresh, or store in the refrigerator for a few days.

FAQs for the Everbearing Strawberries

1. How do I plant 'Allstar' Everbearing Strawberries?

1. Choose the right spot: Select a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.8).
2. Prepare the soil: Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer can also be mixed in before planting.
3. Planting: Space plants 18 inches apart in rows that are 4 feet apart. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without bending them. Ensure the crown is level with the soil surface and backfill gently.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
5. Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of straw or pine needles around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and keep fruit clean.

2. How do I fertilize Everbearing Strawberries?

• Initial fertilization: After planting, wait until plants are established (about 4-6 weeks) before applying a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer.
• Seasonal care: In early spring, as growth resumes, apply a balanced fertilizer. Repeat after the first harvest to encourage continued fruit production.
• Avoid over-fertilization: Excessive nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of fruit production. Follow label rates carefully.

3. How do I ensure good pollination for Everbearing Strawberries?

Encourage pollinators: strawberries are self-fertile, but fruit production benefits from cross-pollination by bees. Encourage pollinators by planting flowers nearby and avoiding pesticide use during flowering. Hand pollination with a small brush can also be done if bee activity is low.

4. How do I harvest Everbearing Strawberries?

• Timing: Harvest in the morning when berries are cool. 'Strawberries typically ripen from late spring through fall.
• Technique: Pick the berries with the caps and a short piece of stem attached. Gently twist the berry off the plant to avoid damaging the plant.
• Storage: Do not wash berries until ready to use. Store in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

5. How do I manage pests and diseases in Everbearing Strawberries?

1. Prevention: Use disease-resistant varieties like The Everbearing. Ensure good air circulation by not overcrowding plants. Rotate crops every 3 years to prevent soil-borne diseases.
2. Monitoring: Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or disease. Early detection is key to management.
3. Control: Use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils for managing pests. Remove and destroy affected plant parts to control diseases. In severe cases, appropriate fungicides or pesticides may be used, following label instructions.

Remember, gardening is a learning process. Don't be afraid to experiment and adjust your practices as you gain experience with your Everbearing Strawberries. Happy gardening!