Strawberries Finished Fruiting: Perform 4 Procedures to Ensure Future Harvest and Winter Survival

As the strawberry fruiting season concludes, gardeners must attend to their plants to secure next year's harvest and ensure survival through winter. Proper post-harvest care is crucial for the health and productivity of the strawberry patch.

Essential maintenance includes a sanitary "pruning" where diseased, dry, or pest-affected leaves are removed, leaving only healthy core leaves. Most runners should be cut back, with only a couple left on the strongest bushes if propagation is desired. Mulching between rows involves removing old mulch, loosening the soil, and adding fresh grass clippings.

Strawberry plants can gradually rise from the soil, exposing their crowns. To prevent drying, gently add soil around the base of the bushes, being careful not to cover the central core, which can lead to rot. Fertilizing with potassium, phosphorus, and boron is vital at this stage. These nutrients strengthen roots, enhance cold resistance, and promote bud formation for the upcoming season. Borofoska, a fertilizer containing these elements, is recommended, with gardeners advised to apply 2 tablespoons per square meter around the bushes and water thoroughly.

Experienced gardeners confirm the efficacy of these practices. One gardener, Vidmantas, shares his long-standing routine: "I cut off all old leaves and runners. I fertilize with potassium and phosphorus and water almost every day. I've been doing this for many years."

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I cut off all old leaves and runners. I fertilize with potassium and phosphorus and water almost every day. I've been doing this for many years.