Strawberry ‘Mount Everest’

Plant climbing strawberry plants in September or April in a sheltered, sunny position in well drained soil. If growing in the ground dig in a generous helping of well rotted manure. If growing in patio containers choose a well-drained compost such as John Innes No.2. Spread out their roots and place them in the soil at a level where the crown of the plant is just poking above the surface. Planting too deeply may cause them to rot! Provide a suitable support to train the long runners onto. Climbing strawberries can also be grown in hanging baskets, flower pouches and window boxes.

These plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They often look dead on arrival, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring. Set out in prepared soil in holes wide enough and deep enough to lay out the roots. Tread down the planting soil to knock out air pockets. Water well to settle. Apply a mulch to protect roots from cold temperatures. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots. The growth points of most bare root perennials should be set about an inch below the soil surface. New growth will appear in spring.

Water strawberries frequently throughout the growing season. Feed container grown plants every two weeks. Train runners up a trellis or plant support using soft plant ties. In May, place a net over the plants to protect your crop from greedy birds! Mulch strawberry plants with well rotted manure every spring. Although strawberry plants will continue to fruit in successive years, the crop will become considerably reduced and it is advisable to completely replace plants every 3 years.