Strawberries are a type of perennial plant, which means that they have the ability to come back year after year. Unlike annual plants that complete their life cycle within a single year, strawberries have a dormancy period during the winter months and then reemerge in the spring, ready to produce another round of delicious berries.
During the dormant period, strawberries conserve their energy and focus on strengthening their root systems. This is a crucial time for the plants to rest and prepare for the upcoming growing season. It is also a great opportunity for gardeners to take certain measures to ensure the success of their strawberry plants.
One common practice among strawberry enthusiasts is to move their plants to a protected area, such as a garage, during the coldest months of the year. This helps shield the plants from extreme cold temperatures and potential frost damage. By providing this extra layer of protection, the plants have a higher chance of surviving the winter and coming back even stronger in the following year.
When preparing to move your strawberries to the garage, it’s important to consider a few factors. First, make sure the garage offers a suitable environment for the plants. It should have enough space to accommodate the number of plants you have and provide adequate lighting, either through windows or artificial grow lights. Additionally, the temperature in the garage should remain consistently cool but not freezing, ideally around 32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 10 degrees Celsius).
Before moving the plants, it’s a good idea to trim back any dead or damaged foliage. This helps promote healthier growth and reduces the risk of disease or pest infestations. You can also remove any runners or offshoots that have spread from the main plant, as these can divert resources away from the main plant’s growth.
Once the plants are in the garage, it’s important to monitor their moisture levels. While strawberries don’t need as much water during dormancy, it’s crucial to ensure that the soil doesn’t completely dry out. Check the soil regularly and water as needed, keeping in mind that the plants won’t require as much water as they do during the active growing season.
During the winter months, it’s also a good time to provide some fertilizer to your strawberry plants. Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for fruiting plants, following the instructions on the packaging. This will provide the plants with essential nutrients they need to thrive once they come out of dormancy.
In the spring, as the weather begins to warm up and the risk of frost has passed, you can start transitioning your strawberries back outside. Gradually expose them to the outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered spot, such as a porch or under a shade cloth, for a few hours a day. Increase the time spent outside gradually over the course of a week or two, until they are acclimated to the outdoor environment.
Once fully acclimated, you can transplant the strawberry plants back into their designated garden bed or containers. Make sure to provide them with well-draining soil, adequate sunlight, and regular watering to support their growth throughout the growing season.
In my own experience, I have found that moving strawberries to a protected area during the winter can greatly increase their chances of survival and vigorous growth in the following year. I have seen my plants bounce back with renewed energy and produce even more abundant harvests. It’s a rewarding practice that can help maximize the potential of your strawberry plants and ensure their longevity in your garden.
To summarize, strawberries are indeed perennial plants that come back year after year. By providing them with proper care and protection during their dormant period, such as moving them to a garage or other suitable location, you can enhance their chances of survival and encourage larger, healthier plants in the following year. With attention to moisture levels, fertilization, and gradual acclimation, you can enjoy the sweet rewards of homegrown strawberries for years to come.
