Propagating Strawberries: Cutting and Planting Runners

Do you want to expand your strawberry patch without buying new plants? One of the easiest and cost-effective ways is to propagate strawberries through runners. The runners, also called stolons, are long, thin tendrils that grow from the base of a mature strawberry plant. In this article, we will guide you on how to cut off strawberry runners and plant them successfully.

When to Cut Strawberry Runners

The ideal time to cut off strawberry runners is in late spring or early summer, after the fruit has been harvested. At this time, the plants are actively producing runners and are still in the growth phase. Avoid cutting runners too early or too late in the season as this may affect their success rate in propagating.

How to Cut and Plant Strawberry Runners

Follow these steps to propagate strawberries through runners:

Step 1: Choose healthy runners

Select runners that originate from a healthy, disease-free, and productive mother plant. The runners should be at least 3-4 inches long and have two or three leaves. Avoid runners that have yellow leaves, signs of disease, or pest damage.

Step 2: Prepare the soil and planting area

Choose a well-draining and fertile soil in a sunny or partly shaded location. Remove any weeds and loosen the soil using a small cultivator or hand fork. Create small holes in the soil where you want to plant the runners.

Step 3: Cut the runners off the mother plant

Use a clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut the runners off the mother plant at the base. Make sure to leave enough space between the mother plant and the new plant so that they do not compete for nutrients and water. Also, avoid cutting too close to the mother plant as this may harm it.

Step 4: Plant the runners

Place the runners in the prepared holes and cover the roots with soil. Firm the soil gently around the planting area to eliminate air pockets. Water the new plants immediately and keep the soil consistently moist until they become established. You can also add some organic fertilizer or compost to the soil for added nutrients.

How to Care for Strawberry Runners

Once the new plants grow and become established, they do not require any special care. Here are some general tips to keep them healthy and productive:

Watering:

Strawberries require consistent moisture, especially during hot and dry periods. Water the plants deeply once a week, or more frequently if the soil is dry. Avoid watering the plants from overhead to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or compost once in the spring and once in the fall. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer that provides nutrients over a longer period. Avoid fertilizing the plants too close to the harvest time as it may affect the flavor of the fruits.

Weeding:

Remove any weeds or grass that grow in the strawberry patch as they can compete for nutrients and water. Mulching around the plants can also help suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Conclusion

Propagating strawberries through runners is an easy and fun way to expand your strawberry patch. With the right timing, preparation, and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy and sweet strawberries year after year. Happy gardening!