Prepare Strawberries & Blackcurrants for Winter Harvest
As the season turns, it's time to prepare strawberry and blackcurrant plants for the winter solstice to ensure a bountiful harvest next year. Here's how to care for these plants this autumn.
Start by removing old, withered, and damaged strawberry leaves, leaving the heart and young leaves intact. This promotes new growth and prevents diseases. Prune any leaves affected by diseases or pests well before the first frosts to keep your plants healthy.
For strawberries, apply mineral autumn fertilizers rich in phosphorus and potassium but without nitrogen. Use around 50-60 g per square meter to support root development and prepare plants for the winter solstice. Spread the fertilizer 10-15 cm from the stem and lightly work it into the topsoil. Organic fertilizers specifically formulated for strawberries can also be used to improve soil quality and plant health.
For blackcurrants, apply 5-10 kg of compost or mature compost under each mature bush in the fall. This nourishes the soil and improves its structure. Use phosphorus-potassium fertilizers like superphosphate (40-50 g) and potassium salt (20-30 g) or wood ash (1-2 full cups) to strengthen the root systems. Distribute the fertilizers evenly under the bush crown, work them into the soil, and perform watering-in irrigation.
By following these steps, you'll prepare your strawberry and blackcurrant plants for the winter solstice, setting them up for a record-breaking crop next season. Remember to remove damaged leaves, apply the right fertilizers, and care for your plants consistently for the best results.
