How to Over Winter Strawberry Plants in Pots

Strawberry plants are popular among gardeners due to their sweet and juicy fruits. However, these plants can be quite sensitive to extreme weather conditions, making it challenging to over winter them. Fortunately, with the right care, you can keep your strawberry plants alive and thriving throughout the winter season. Here are some useful tips for overwintering strawberry plants in pots.

Choose the Right Strawberry Variety

The first and foremost thing you need to do is to choose the right variety of strawberry plants. Some strawberry species are specifically designed to handle cold weather and can survive winter conditions easily. So, if you live in a region that experiences harsh winter weather, consider planting a sturdy variety like 'Allstar' or 'Earliglow.'

Protect Your Plants from Frost and Cold Winds

It is essential to protect your strawberry plants from the chilly winds that blow during the winter season. You can do this by wrapping the pots in a thick layer of burlap or any other insulating material. Additionally, you can place the pots close to your home's foundation or in a garage or shed to provide extra protection from the cold.

Water Your Plants With Care

During the winter season, strawberry plants require less water than during the summer. Thus, you need to adjust your watering routine accordingly. Overwatering the plants during winter can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plants. Don't let the plants dry out completely, but water them sparingly when the top two inches of soil are dry.

Fertilize Your Plants Properly

Strawberry plants require different types of fertilizers in different seasons. During the winter season, you should use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) fertilizer. Apply it sparingly to the soil around the plants to promote healthy growth. However, avoid fertilizing the plants from late fall to early spring, as this could cause new growth that will be vulnerable to frost damage.

Prune Your Strawberry Plants

Pruning your strawberry plants is an essential step in maintaining their health during the winter season. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood from the plants, as well as any leaves that show signs of pest damage or disease. This will help prevent the spread of infections and pests, keeping your plants healthy and alive throughout the winter season.

In Conclusion

Overwintering strawberry plants in pots requires careful attention and maintenance. However, with the right amount of care and patience, you can successfully keep your strawberry plants alive and thriving throughout the winter season. Just remember to choose the right variety of plants, protect them from frost and cold winds, water and fertilize them properly, and prune them regularly. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy tasty and juicy strawberries all year round.