BUNNINGS August 2019

66
Plant pick
Strawberry delight
Name: Fragaria x ananassa
What they look like
Deep red berries pop against small, vivid
green serrated leaves. Dug into a garden
bed, this low grower will throw out runners
to make new ones, and in time and with
the right care, will fill its allotted space with
a carpet of greenery and ruby-hued fruit.
Where they grow
Strawberries will flourish from seed or
runners in most climates, but are best
grown in full sun to ensure your fruit
thrive. Lack of sun will mean little or no
flavour for your summer berries. They do
well in pots and hanging planters, which
also lets you move them if conditions
get too harsh. They are shallow-rooted,
so ensure the soil doesn’t dry out,
especially if planted in a windy spot.
Why we love them
The best time to plant strawberries
is from June to October in the warmer
northern regions, and August to October
in the cooler southern regions, with the
fruiting season running from spring to
autumn. Easy to handle, they’re a perfect
starter plant for a beginner grower.
How to grow them
Start with good quality soil or a potting
mix designed for fruit, then surround with
straw to lock in moisture and keep fruit
off the soil. Keep well fed with a solution
of Seasol fortnightly. Runners will appear
during the fruiting season and should be
pruned off and, if you like, potted to make
new plants. Once the plants start fruiting,
install netting to protect from birds. ◆
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Strawberry
Fragaria x ananassa
Photography Getty
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