Strawberry Roots: Polka

Name: Strawberry Roots: Polka

Latin Name: Fragaria × ananassa

Organic Certified: No

Description: Polka is a June-bearing strawberry variety known for its excellent flavour and high yields. It's often chosen by home gardeners and commercial growers alike for its sweet taste and firm texture. The berries Polka are typically large and have a glossy appearance.

Amount Of Roots Per Pack: 5

Planting: February to April

Planting Depth: 5cm

Plant Height: 60cm

Plant Spacing: 15cm

Harvesting: June to August

How To Grow Strawberry Plants From Roots: 

Growing strawberry plants from bare roots can be a rewarding experience, and Ireland's climate is pretty good for growing strawberries. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you successfully grow strawberry plants from bare roots:

Materials Needed:

1. Strawberry plant roots (bare roots or crowns)
2. Quality potting soil or compost
3. Containers or hanging baskets with drainage holes
4. Fertiliser (balanced, slow-release)
5. Mulch (straw or pine needles)
6. Watering can or drip irrigation system
7. Organic matter (optional)

Steps:

• 1. Selecting the Right Variety:
• Choose a strawberry variety that is well-suited for your climate. June-bearing varieties are popular in Ireland.
• 2. Preparing the Soil:
• Use a well-draining potting mix or amend your garden soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
• Ensure the soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.8, as strawberries prefer slightly acidic conditions.
• 3. Choosing Containers:
• If growing in containers, select pots or hanging baskets with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• 4. Planting:
• Plant the strawberry roots in early spring, following the instructions on the packaging.
• Set the roots in the soil, making sure the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) is level with the soil surface.
• Space the plants about 15 cm apart to allow for proper growth.
• 5. Watering:
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Strawberries prefer regular, deep watering.
• Consider using a drip irrigation system to keep the foliage dry and prevent diseases if you are growing a lot of strawberry plants.
• 6. Fertilising:
• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser when planting and again after the first harvest.
• 7. Mulching:
• Mulch around the plants with straw or pine needles to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and protect the fruit from direct contact with the soil.
• 8. Sunlight:
• Ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal fruit production.
• 9. Pruning:
• Remove any runners that develop to encourage energy to go into fruit production. Trim back dead or yellowing leaves.
• 10. Pest and Disease Management:
• Keep an eye out for pests like slugs, snails, and birds.
• Monitor for diseases such as powdery mildew.
• 11. Harvesting:
• Harvest ripe strawberries when they are fully red. Pick them with a small portion of the stem attached.
• Harvesting regularly encourages the plant to produce more fruit.
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By following the above steps, you can grow healthy and productive strawberry plants from bare roots in Ireland. Enjoy your homegrown strawberries!