Strawberries are the kitchen garden's most popular fruit and work as well in a balcony pot as in a bed. Established plants crop for several years.
Origin and natural habitat
The garden strawberry arose in 18th-century France as a cross between American species. Today it is grown worldwide, and in Sweden it is the essential midsummer classic.
Care
Light
Full sun is mandatory for sweet berries — at least six hours of direct sun. In half shade the harvest turns tart and small.
Watering
Water regularly, especially during flowering and fruiting. Avoid wetting leaves and berries — water at the root to prevent grey mould.
Soil and feeding
Rich, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Feed with tomato fertiliser through the season. Mulch with straw under the berries, and replace plants every third year for the best crop.
Common problems
Grey mould on ripe berries in rain — remove affected fruit and improve airflow. Slugs love strawberries: beer traps or netting help. Red leaf spots are fungal — cut out affected leaves.
Good to know
The strawberry is technically not a berry but an accessory fruit — the true fruits are the tiny yellow seeds on the surface. Safe for cats and dogs.
