Growing strawberries in the garden and on the balcony

In short: Strawberries are among the most popular fruits from your own garden. They grow in beds, raised beds and also in pots and balcony boxes.

In more detail: For a good harvest, strawberries need sun, humus-rich soil and regular care. After a few years the yield declines, and the bed is then renewed with young plants.

In detail

• Varieties: June-bearing varieties produce one large crop in early summer. Everbearing varieties give smaller amounts over a longer period. Alpine strawberries have small, very aromatic fruit.
• Planting time: Traditionally, strawberries are planted in high summer so that they root well before winter and fruit the following year. Planting in spring is also possible.
• Planting correctly: The crown of the plant, from which the leaves grow, must stay above the soil. Plants set too deep rot easily.
• Spacing: Enough space between plants provides airflow so the leaves dry quickly. This helps prevent fungal diseases.
• Straw underneath: A layer of straw under the ripening fruit keeps it clean and dry and reduces grey mould.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruit formation. Water at soil level where possible, not over the fruit.
• Runners: Strawberries send out long runners with young plants. If you want a large harvest, remove them. Strong runners can, however, be used to raise new plants.
• After harvesting: Remove old and diseased leaves and feed the plants moderately. After about three to four years, plant a new bed in a different spot.
• Pests: Slugs and birds like to help themselves. Nets and regular hand-picking help (schnecken-im-garten, mulchen-im-garten, hochbeet-bauen-und-bepflanzen).