Propagate strawberry plantlets

Established strawberry plants produce lots of runners, which are long side shoots that end in mini plants called plantlets. When strawberry plants are young and productive, these runners should be cut off, so that energy is channelled into fruit production. As the strawberry plants age and become less productive (normally after three years), the plantlets can be allowed to develop and become replacements.

Dig up the old plants, and cut off and save the healthiest plantlets that have formed. Lift the plantlets out carefully if they have taken root in the surrounding soil. Prepare a planting hole in good soil or potting mix and build up a small mound in the centre. Sit the plantlet on top of the mound, spreading the roots with care. Fill in with soil, being careful not to bury the crown (the central growing point), and water well to settle in.

Protect the plants for a week or two with a cover of shadecloth to help reduce transplant shock. Mulch with sugarcane mulch or, following ancient traditions, with straw. Keep moist, feed mid- to late-winter, and prepare to reap your delicious strawberry harvest.

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