GARDEN STRAWBERRIES

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 992, 7 June 1930, Page 32

GARDEN STRAWBERRIES

THE TIME TO PLANT Every gardener should cultivate a small bed of strawberries (Fragaria). The strawberry will grow in any good soil provided it is thoroughly trenched with well-rotted cow or stable manure. The finest strawberries are generally grown in cool districts, on a slight slope facing the early sun. The first thing to do is to select the most suitable for planting. Marguerite or Waikato strawberry is a great favourite in Auckland. Ettsberg is a smaller berry than the above, but much sweeter. Captain Cook, the new variety, seems to be an improvement on both varieties, the berries being large and rounded, and a heavy cropper. This berry commanded top prices in the market last season. The above three varieties are the best for the Auckland district.

Set out the strawberries as early as possible in June. Early planting is advisable, as they have a chance to get established before it gets too dry. Plant in rows 18 inches apart, and 2ft between the rows. Overcrowding is not advisable. This gives room for -walking between the rows when picking. Set each plant carefully, keeping the crown level with the top of the ground. On no account cover the crown.

After planting, mulch the strawberries with straw or rotted stable manure. Keep the rows well hoed. This will keep the soil loose, and work in the manure. During the dry weather, frequent watering should be given, and liquid manure applied every ten days after they show flower. This will help to produce a second crop. The old plants will throw out runners. Kip off any that* are not required, and when the growing shoots are rooted transplant into a bed, six inches apart, to make fresh stock for next season.