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Strawberry

Fragaria · Rosaceae

Bloomingfrom April to May

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant strawberry: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Family
Rosaceae
Plant type
Herbaceous perennial
Foliage
Deciduous to semi-evergreen
Flowering
April to May
Adult size
15 to 30 cm tall, spreading habit
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -20°C)
Origin
Modern hybrids from species native to North America and Chile

Care

Sunlight

Your strawberry prefers a location in full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours daily) to encourage good fruiting and optimal flavor. It tolerates partial shade but yields and fruit sweetness diminish. Plant it in a well-ventilated area to limit fungal diseases.

Watering

Keep the soil regularly moist during growth and flowering, especially in summer. Water at the base, avoiding the foliage, which becomes susceptible to fungal diseases when wet. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Be careful with excess water, which promotes root rot.

Soil

Your strawberry appreciates rich, well-drained soil with organic matter and slightly acidic pH (6 to 7). Incorporate compost or potting soil before planting. Compacted or waterlogged soil compromises plant health and fruit production.

Fertilizer

Apply balanced fertilizer in spring before flowering, then a potassium-rich feed in summer to support fruit production. For container cultivation, a light monthly application is recommended. Choose organic fertilizers to preserve flavor quality.

Pruning and cleanup

After harvest, remove damaged leaves and runners (trailing stems) that weaken the plant if you want concentrated production. Clean away old leaves and debris in autumn. Renew your plants every 3 to 4 years to maintain good vigor.

Diseases and pests

Your strawberry fears powdery mildew, downy mildew, and gray rot (botrytis), especially in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid wetting the foliage. Slugs, snails, and spider mites are common pests: inspect regularly and install protective barriers or repellent mulch if needed.

Did you know?

The strawberry is a remarkable horticultural hybrid: the modern cultivated variety (Fragaria × ananassa) was born in the 18th century in Brittany through a chance cross between two wild species imported from America. Its botanical name 'ananassa' evokes its supposed resemblance to the pineapple. A symbol of summer and indulgence, it is one of the rare herbaceous plants achieving such worldwide commercial success.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.