Strawberry Baron Solemacher

Climate and Location

Preferred Climate:

• Baron Solemacher strawberries thrive best in temperate and cool climates.

Microclimates:

• Choose a planting site that receives morning sun and some afternoon shade to protect the plants during the hottest part of the day.
• Avoid low-lying areas where frost can settle.

Soil Preparation

• Soil Type: These strawberries prefer loamy, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 7.0). You can test your soil pH with a testing kit.
• Soil Amendments: Before planting, amend your soil with compost, well-aged manure, or worm castings to enhance fertility and soil structure.

Planting Instructions

Ideal Planting Time:

• Plant in early spring after the last frost or in early autumn for best results in Australia.
• See product description for full climate zone guide

Spacing:

• Space plants about 15 cm apart to allow ample air circulation and room to spread.

Depth:

• Plant the seeds t a depth of 3 mm

Planting in Containers:

• Alpine strawberries are well-suited for containers. Use pots with drainage holes and fill them with quality potting mix.

Watering and Irrigation

• Moisture Requirements:
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Strawberries require regular watering, especially during fruit formation.
• Irrigation Method: Drip irrigation systems are ideal as they provide consistent moisture and reduce the risk of fungal diseases by keeping foliage dry.

Fertilisation

Types of Fertilisers:

• Use organic fertilisers such as a balanced 10-10-10 or a slow-release organic fertilizer high in phosphorus and potassium to promote flowering and fruiting.

Application Schedule:

• Fertilise in early spring as new growth emerges and again after the first harvest to encourage continued fruiting.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Slugs and snails can be a nuisance; use organic repellents or traps.
• Aphids might visit; control them with insecticidal soap or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Diseases:

• Watch for powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions.
• Good air circulation, proper watering techniques, and avoiding overhead watering can help.
• Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne pathogens.

Harvesting

Harvest Time:

• Fruits typically ripen from late spring to summer, with a potential for continued harvesting throughout the growing season.

Technique:

• Pick strawberries when they are fully coloured; gentle twisting or cutting at the stem prevents damage.

Companion Planting

Herbs:

• Basil: Repels pests like flies and mosquitoes while attracting beneficial insects such as bees.
• Thyme: Can help deter pests like cabbage worms and is an excellent ground cover.

Flowers:

• Marigolds: Known for their pest-repelling properties, especially nematodes and aphids, while attracting pollinators.
• Nasturtiums: Act as a trap crop for aphids, diverting them away from strawberries.

Vegetables:

• Spinach and Lettuce: Grow well alongside strawberries; they can be planted in the spaces between strawberry plants during cooler months.
• Beans: They can help fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing fertility for the strawberries.

Avoid Planting With:

Brassicas:

• Plants like cabbage, broccoli, and kale can attract common pests such as aphids and caterpillars, which may spread to your strawberries.

Potatoes:

• Potatoes can attract pests like the Colorado potato beetle, which can also affect strawberries. Additionally, both crops share similar diseases, increasing the risk of spreading pathogens.

Onions and Garlic:

• While they have strong pest-repelling qualities, they can inhibit the growth of strawberries.

Carrots:

• Carrots can compete for nutrients and space, making it harder for strawberries to flourish.

Eggplant and Peppers:

• These plants can attract the same pests, like flea beetles, which might negatively affect your strawberry plants