Knowledgebase

First year strawberry plants with set fruit #236881

Asked April 14, 2015, 11:31 AM EDT

The Frederick County MD nurseries have strawberry plants with 1/4" to 1" fruit already set. Once fruit is set, should it be removed to focus plant energy on roots, or is it too late to divert plant energy at this point? Should I remove all existing fruit, some fruit, or no fruit in addition to removing the flowers? Also, where in Maryland is the Maryland cultivated strawberry 'ovation' available ? None of the Frederick County nurseries have heard of it.

Jefferson County West Virginia

Expert Response

For june bearing varieties like the ones that are shown in the photo, fruit and flowers are removed the entire first season. This sacrifices early fruit production to encourage strong growth, runner productions, and winter survival.
See our publication on Getting Started With Small Fruits http://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_images/programs/hgic/Publications/HG68_Getting_Started...

http://extension.umd.edu/growit/fruit-profiles/strawberries

We do not have research or information on "Ovation".  You will have to check the internet or your local sources.
mh





Loading ...