Author Question: Discuss some steps to ensure better strawberry yields. What will be an ideal ... (Read 81 times)

scienceeasy · **on:** Jul 21, 2018

Discuss some steps to ensure better strawberry yields.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Discuss the advantages of mulching strawberry plants. Are there any
disadvantages?

What will be an ideal response?

zoeyesther · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 21, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Steps for better strawberry yields are:
Build up the level of organic matter in soils (a year ahead if possible).
Fumigate the soil for diseases, insects, and weeds.
Select locally adapted varieties. This is very important.
Plant as early as possible.
Plant on raised beds, especially in heavy soils.
Plant at the proper depth.
Space plants for maximum light (narrow rows).
Remove excess runners.
Fertilize in the early fall to encourage flower-bud formation.
Protect plants over the winter with mulch or row covers.
Protect plants from spring frost.
Provide bees for good pollination of blossoms.
Supply adequate moisture.
Spray for good disease and insect control.
Pick only ripe fruit and, in pick-your-own operations, insist that the customers pick
only ripe fruit.
Renovate beds as soon as possible after the harvest

Answer to Question 2

Advantages of mulching strawberry plants are that it helps to control freezing and
thawing of the soil, which pushes plants out of the soil and exposes roots to drying. It also helps with weed control if the mulch is applied so that it is thick enough. A
disadvantage would be accidentally introducing weed seeds into the garden.