Organic Fragaria ananassis ‘Springberry’

Fragaria x ananassa ‘Springberry’, better known as Strawberry ‘Springberry’, produces delicious round red fruits that are ready to harvest from June onwards. The plants propagate through runners and are self-pollinating. They thrive in well-draining, fertile, and humus-rich soil, sheltered from the wind. The soil should remain permeable, especially during winter. Avoid planting them near cabbage varieties.

How to plant Strawberry roots
Dig a hole spacious enough to accommodate the roots and thoroughly water to saturate the soil. Trim the roots to a length of 10cm (4in) if necessary, then arrange them in the hole. Replenish the soil, ensuring the crown lightly rests on the surface, and gently press it in with your fingers. Planting at the correct depth is crucial – too deep can cause rot, while too shallow may result in drying out and plant death. Water well to settle the soil around the roots.

Space plants 35–40cm (14–16in) apart in rows 75–100cm (30in–3ft) apart. To deter weeds and elevate fruits from the soil, consider using a biodegradable mulch mat or reusable strawberry collar around each plant. Mulch, at least 5cm (2in) thick, applied from late autumn to late winter, serves various purposes such as frost protection, nutrient enhancement, water retention, decorative cover, and weed suppression. Materials like well-rotted compost, chipped bark, gravel, grit, or slate chippings can be used.

For easy strawberry cultivation, grow them in pots, grow bags, hanging baskets, troughs, or tubs. Traditional strawberry pots, though attractive, can make plant maintenance challenging. Fill a large container with peat-free multi-purpose or soil-based compost, planting the crown level with the surface. Space plants 10–20cm (4–8in) apart. Water regularly, especially in sunny spots.