FoodAutumn prep for strawberries: A fruitful path to spring success

Autumn prep for strawberries: A fruitful path to spring success

Strawberries in the home garden. How to take care of them in autumn?
Strawberries in the home garden. How to take care of them in autumn?
Images source: © Money | Rafał Parczewski
Danuta Pałęga

15 October 2024 18:24

Autumn strawberry care is crucial for their health and bountiful harvests in the coming season. In October, it's worth focusing on fertilisation and proper watering of the plants. With these measures, the bushes will strengthen and endure the winter months more easily.

The strawberry season usually starts in April and lasts until mid-summer, allowing us to enjoy the taste of fresh fruit for several months. These sweet fruits have gained recognition among Brits not only as an addition to desserts and cakes but also as an ingredient in smoothies.

Strawberries are rich in valuable vitamins, which have a positive impact on health and are therefore an ideal component of many people's diets.

To enjoy the taste of strawberries from your own cultivation, it is worth taking care of the appropriate preparation of plants for the upcoming season already in the autumn. October is a good time for bush care.

Strawberries are perennial plants, which means that once planted, they can bear fruit for several seasons, as long as they grow in good conditions. The choice of location is crucial – it's best if it is sunny, and the soil is fertile and well-drained. It is important to avoid places where excessive moisture could accumulate.

Fertiliser and protection against frost

In the autumn, after the fruiting period ends, plants need nourishment to prepare well for winter. It is recommended to use fertiliser with the addition of phosphorus and potassium, which strengthen the roots and help the plant better withstand the cold months.

After applying fertiliser, it is worth watering the strawberries immediately, so that the nutrients can be absorbed more quickly. In October, it is also good to think about protecting the plants from the coming frosts – this will ensure a better start in the next season.

Regular watering in spring and summer

During the spring and summer period, strawberries require regular watering, which is crucial for obtaining healthy, juicy fruits. Proper hydration and appropriate autumn fertilisation will help the plants not only survive the winter but also ensure bountiful harvests in the following year.

For those who want to cultivate strawberries in home gardens, following these guidelines will help maintain healthy plants and tasty crops for years.