Introduction
The strawberry plant is a perennial plant that is highly prized for its sweet and fragrant red fruits. Grown in the open field or under cover, it offers a profitable and fast production, suitable for both small gardens and professional farms.
Benefits
- Rapid fruiting (a few months after planting).
- High profitability on small areas.
- Good adaptation to greenhouse or soilless crops.
- Strong and constant demand in local markets.
Main varieties
- Gariguette : sweet, precocious taste.
- Cléry : very fragrant, good conservation.
- Ciflorette : melting flesh, very sweet.
- Mara des bois : wild strawberry taste, evergreen.
Ideal growing conditions
Soil: rich, light, well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5).
Climate: temperate, fears excess heat and humidity.
Exposure: full sun or partial shade.
Irrigation: regular, without excess water on the leaves.
Crop Cycle
Planting: autumn or spring.
Flowering: from March-April.
Harvest: April to June (or several times for everbearing plants).
Maintenance techniques
Mulching to limit weeds and keep moisture in.
Pruning of stolons to promote fruiting.
Protection against birds and slugs.
Aeration and disinfection of plants in greenhouses.
Common issues
- Diseases: powdery mildew, botrytis (grey mould), anthracnose.
- Pests: aphids, mites, slugs, white grubs.
Recommended Products
Anecdote
The modern strawberry is the result of a cross between two species from America. It was introduced to Europe in the eighteenth century and is now cultivated in almost every part of the world.
FAQ
In autumn for a first harvest the following spring, or in spring for a later harvest.
By ensuring good sunshine, well-drained soil and controlled irrigation.
A strawberry plant can produce for 3 to 4 years, but it is advisable to renew the plants every 2 years for best yields.
