Strawberry success
Judy Asked
When is the best time to transplant strawberries and to thin out the beds?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi Judy, It is hard to beat the flavor of a homegrown strawberry! Established patches can become crowded and will benefit from being thinned out. Each plant competes for nutrients, moisture, and sunlight, and if there isn’t enough to go around, it will result in lower yields. Strawberries can be relocated during the early spring or early fall. It’s always a good idea to prep the new bed before digging up the runners or divided parent plants. The less time they spend out of the ground, the less stress they will experience. Once they are in their new home, treat like any new addition to the garden. Sufficient moisture is essential for root development during this time. A layer of straw will help insulate and protect strawberries during the cold winter months. Once the risk of frost of over, the plants can be uncovered and ready for another growing season. Routine maintenance will help keep your strawberries producing large yields for many years. Enjoy!
Angie Oakley
Kentucky Living- Ask the Gardener
