– one of the favorite summer berries, but in order for them to be abundant and even sweeter next season, it is necessary to take proper care of the strawberry bushes in autumn. The cold season can be a challenge, so now is the time to learn how to prepare strawberries for the winter.
Correctly performed autumn actions will ensure that strawberries will not only successfully overwinter, but also start to grow stronger in the spring, and will delight with a bountiful harvest in the summer.
In this article, you’ll learn what steps to take in the fall to enjoy an even bigger harvest of strawberries next season.
When the air temperature drops, strawberries need potassium, which helps strawberries overwinter and strengthens cell membrane walls.
If strawberries get enough potassium, the fruit will be big and sweet, and the leaves will be strong and healthy.
Before winter, it is also necessary to provide strawberries with phosphorus.
This mineral is necessary for the formation of buds, strengthening of leaves and roots.
Recommended dose:
- Potassium phosphate – 7 grams per 10 liters.
- Potassium sulfate – 12 grams per 10 liters
- Potassium magnesia – 10 g per 10 liters.
Do not use potassium nitrate in the fall, because they contain nitrogen, which is undesirable in the fall for the following reasons:
- Nitrogen fertilizers increase the production of green matter, and it is not really necessary in autumn, because the plants would be much more sensitive to cold.
- Reduced cold tolerance of strawberries and organic matter can increase the spread of pests that destroy plants.
It is also important to mulch strawberries before winter.
When cold weather arrives, cover the strawberries with, for example, straw or bark.
Before that, it is recommended to weed the beds and remove damaged strawberry leaves, which can become a source of diseases.
These simple steps are very important in the fall: if you take proper care of your strawberries, you can enjoy a truly bountiful harvest next year!
