Pick Your Patch: The Wonders of Ever Bearing Strawberries

Ever bearing strawberries are a delight for any gardener or fruit enthusiast. These delectable fruits offer a continuous harvest throughout the growing season, providing an extended period of enjoyment.

Benefits of Ever Bearing Strawberries

1. Extended Harvest Season:

Unlike traditional strawberry varieties, ever bearing strawberries produce fruit over an extended period, from early summer to late fall. This allows you to enjoy your favorite berries for months on end.

Season	Harvest Period
June-bearing	2-3 weeks
Ever bearing	5-6 months

2. Higher Yield:

Ever bearing strawberries typically produce a higher yield than traditional varieties. They bear fruit multiple times during the growing season, resulting in a larger harvest.

Variety	Yield (pounds per plant)
June-bearing	0.5-1.5
Ever bearing	1.5-2.5

How to Grow Ever Bearing Strawberries

1. Choose the Right Variety:

There are several popular varieties of ever bearing strawberries available. Choose varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.

Variety	Zone Hardiness
Albion	4-8
Seascape	5-9
Earliglow	5-9

2. Site Preparation:

Ever bearing strawberries prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility and drainage.

Effective Strategies for Growing Ever Bearing Strawberries

Mulch Around Plants: Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilize Regularly: Fertilize ever bearing strawberries every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Water Consistently: Water ever bearing strawberries deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Tips and Tricks for Ever Bearing Strawberries

Pinch Off Runners: Remove runners (long stems with plantlets) to encourage fruit production.

Protect from Birds: Cover ever bearing strawberries with netting or row covers to prevent birds from eating the fruit.

Use Companion Planting: Plant ever bearing strawberries with compatible companions like garlic, onions, or marigolds to improve yield and deter pests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Ever Bearing Strawberries

Overcrowding: Plant ever bearing strawberries with adequate spacing to allow for good air circulation and prevent disease.

Underwatering: Ever bearing strawberries need regular watering, especially during the fruiting season.

Insufficient Fertilization: Ever bearing strawberries require regular fertilization to produce a bountiful harvest.

Pick Your Patch: The Wonders of Ever Bearing Strawberries