Growing Strawberries in a polytunnel

In the UK, summer fruiting strawberries are the most grown berries. They bloom in early, mid-season, and late stages. This shows how popular strawberries are in UK gardens.

Using a strawberry polytunnel changes how we grow these fruits. It creates a warm space for growing strawberries all year. This means we can enjoy sweet strawberries, even when the weather is bad.

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of growing strawberries in a polytunnel. We’ll talk about choosing the right varieties, planting, watering, and managing pests. We’ll also look at harvesting and the health benefits of these colourful fruits. Join me on this journey to learn how to grow delicious strawberries.

Key Takeaways

Strawberries can be categorised into early, mid-season, and late fruiting types.
Try something new for massive results (I promise, pinkie swear)
Planting in late summer/autumn typically leads to better crop yields due to improved establishment.
Recommended spacing for strawberry plants is 35-40cm apart in rows of 75-100cm.
Common pests for strawberries include vine weevils and slugs, necessitating proactive management.
Growing strawberries in a polytunnel provides a warmer microclimate and protection from pests.

Introduction to Growing Strawberries

Strawberries are loved all over the world for their bright colour and sweet taste. My adventure in growing berries started with strawberries, known as Fragaria × ananassa. They come from Brittany, France, in the 1750s. Despite being in the rose family, strawberries are special because they’re not true berries.

Growing strawberries in a polytunnel has many benefits. It lets me grow them outside of normal seasons and keeps them safe from bad weather. Strawberries do very well in these conditions, leading to better growth and quality.

Managing strawberry plants well can lead to great results. For example, June-bearing varieties produce a big crop all at once. Knowing about different types of strawberries is key. Also, how you arrange them in a polytunnel, their spacing, and sunlight are all important for their growth.

Strawberries need 8 or more hours of sunlight to grow well.
Keeping the soil moist is crucial, needing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water a week.
Using the right planting method, like the matted row system, can help increase berry production.

With careful planning and attention, strawberry farming is not just rewarding but also fun. Every step, from choosing the right varieties to creating the perfect growing space, adds to the joy of picking these tasty berries.

The Benefits of Growing Strawberries in a Polytunnel

Growing strawberries under glass is gaining popularity. It offers many benefits, especially the longer growing season. I can plant earlier and enjoy strawberries all year.

Polys are great at protecting crops from bad weather. They keep strawberries safe from strong winds and heavy rain. This means I lose fewer crops and get better-tasting strawberries.

Keeping the temperature right in a polytunnel is key. It helps strawberries grow well. It also keeps diseases like Botrytis blossom blight away. I manage the temperature by opening and closing the sides.

There are also economic benefits. Fresh strawberry prices have gone up, making it a good business. In 2017, strawberries cost about $1.25 per pound. Growing them early and late helps me make the most of the market.

In short, growing strawberries in a polytunnel is a great idea. It offers a longer growing season, protection, and better fruit. It makes gardening even more enjoyable.

Choosing the Right Strawberry Varieties

In the world of berry farming, picking the right strawberry varieties is key to success. There are many options, each with its own traits. Knowing the differences between June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral strawberries helps you choose the best for your polytunnel.

June-Bearing vs. Everbearing Strawberries

June-bearing strawberries produce a big crop in June. They are a top choice for growers wanting a big harvest in a short time. ‘Benicia’ is a popular variety that does well in many climates.

Everbearing strawberries, like ‘Eversweet’ and ‘Bolero’, give smaller crops all summer. They start producing when there are 12 hours of daylight. These are great for those who want strawberries for longer.

Day-Neutral Strawberry Varieties

Day-neutral strawberries produce fruit all summer, from May to October. They are perfect for container gardening and can grow well in different conditions. ‘Albion’ and ‘Seascape’ are good examples. They also produce fewer runners, which is good for saving space in a polytunnel.

Here’s a helpful table summarising the key differences among the main strawberry varieties:

Strawberry Type	Fruit Production Timing	Common Varieties	Runners Production
June-Bearing	One large crop in June	Benicia, Allstar, Honeoye	More runners
Everbearing	Continuous crops from June to summer’s end	Eversweet, Bolero, Jewel	Fewer runners
Day-Neutral	Continuous fruiting from May to October	Albion, Seascape, Quinault	Fewest runners

By picking the right strawberry varieties, you’re set for a successful berry farming journey.

✅ Follow My YouTube Channel for guidance along the season or just pop in and say Hi

Setting Up Your Polytunnel for Strawberry Cultivation

Setting up a strawberry polytunnel needs careful planning and preparation. The first steps are crucial for a good harvest. This section covers the key steps to set up your strawberry polytunnel well.

Site Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right spot for your strawberry polytunnel is important. Strawberries need lots of sunlight to grow well. It’s also key to have good drainage to avoid waterlogged soil.

After picking a spot, I prepare the site. This means clearing away debris and weeds, and testing the soil. I also make sure there’s enough air inside the polytunnel for the plants to grow well. These steps help lay a strong foundation for growing strawberries.

Essential Equipment and Materials

Setting up a strawberry polytunnel needs the right tools for growth and high yields. The main items include:

Polytunnel structure: A strong and weather-resistant frame is vital.
Irrigation system: Drip irrigation delivers water right to the roots, keeping them moist.
Protective covering: The covering should let in sunlight but keep pests and diseases out.
Growing beds or trestle tables: Raised beds help with air flow and keep fruits off the ground, away from pests.

Knowing about these essential equipment helps me give strawberries the best growing conditions. Using quality materials means better yields and healthier plants in the long run.

Equipment	Purpose	Benefits
Polytunnel structure	Protect plants from harsh weather	Extended growing season
Irrigation system	Provide consistent moisture	Improved fruit quality and yield
Growing beds	Raise plants off the ground	Reduced pest issues
Protective covering	Shield crops from pests	Cleaner and healthier strawberries

By focusing on site preparation and essential equipment, I create the best environment for my strawberry polytunnel. This sets the stage for a successful harvest.

Try Growing Strawberries in Hanging Baskets

Watch this YouTube Video to see how I set up my Hanging basket framework in the Polytunnel.

This year try to grow early Strawberries in hanging baskets, I start in February and this is what I do. Step into our strawberry wonderland enclosed within the protective embrace of a polytunnel.

Watch my How to guide for all things Strawberries, and Yes I had a MASSIVE RESULT!

Soil Preparation and Nutrient Management

Getting your soil right is key for growing great strawberries. Knowing what strawberries need helps me create the perfect spot for them. I start by testing and amending the soil, and making sure it’s fertile enough.

Testing and Amending Soil

First, I do a soil test to see its pH, organic matter, and nutrients. Strawberries love slightly acidic soil, with a pH of 5.3 to 6.5. It’s best to test the soil a year before planting, especially if it’s been a while since the last test.

If my soil is not up to par, I add compost or fertilisers. This makes the soil better for growing strawberries.

Fertility Requirements for Strawberries

Managing nutrients is vital for healthy strawberry plants. Nitrogen needs vary, depending on the soil. I apply 60 to 80 lbs N/acre in the first year.

Phosphorus and potassium levels depend on the soil test. I make sure to add enough potassium, from 25 to 150 lbs/A, based on the test results.

Nutrient	Application Rate – Establishment Year	Application Rate – Bearing Year
Nitrogen (N)	60 to 80 lbs N/acre	Post-harvest renovation application
Phosphorus (P)	As per soil test	As per soil test
Potassium (K)	25 to 150 lbs/A	Adjust based on soil health

Following these tips helps me prepare the soil and manage nutrients well. This ensures my strawberries grow strong and healthy all season.

Best Practices for Planting Strawberries

Planting strawberries needs careful timing, methods, and plant arrangement. Knowing these tips can boost your strawberry yield and quality. This means a tasty harvest for you.

Timing and Methods of Planting

When to plant strawberries is key for growth and fruit. I suggest planting in early spring or late summer to autumn. This depends on the strawberry variety. There are several planting methods:

Raised beds: They help with drainage and warm the soil, helping plants grow faster.
Containers: Great for small spaces and controlling soil quality.
Matted rows: Plant strawberries 18 inches apart in rows. This gives them room to spread.

These methods help create a good environment for strawberries. Good soil preparation is also crucial for plant health.

Spacing and Arrangement of Plants

Spacing is important for plant arrangement. Here are some guidelines:

Planting Method	Spacing Between Plants	Row Width
Matted Rows	18 inches	48 to 52 inches
Containers	10 inches apart	N/A

This spacing helps with air and sunlight. Both are essential for quality fruit. Avoid overcrowding to prevent competition for resources. Mulch 3 to 6 inches deep helps by keeping moisture in and weeds out.

Following these best practices ensures my strawberries grow well. They produce sweet berries that are better than store-bought ones.

Watering and Irrigation Techniques

Watering strawberries well is key to growing them successfully. Polytunnels help control the environment, making irrigation techniques even more important. Drip irrigation is a great choice because it saves water and keeps leaves dry.

Setting Up a Drip Irrigation System

Setting up a drip irrigation system is a smart move for watering strawberries. It uses less water than old sprinkler systems, saving money and the planet. Here’s how to get started:

Keep drippers 20 cm (8”) apart, but aim for 15 cm (6”) for best results.
Use systems like Rivulis T-Tape, which work best at 0.85 bar (12 psi).
Put drip lines along plant rows to hit the roots right.
Get an irrigation expert to create a custom system for strawberries.

Optimal Watering Practices

Knowing how much water strawberries need is crucial. New plants need about 1 inch of water a week. As they grow, they need 1 to 2 inches a week. Check the soil moisture often to keep it at 50% field capacity.

Using soil moisture sensors helps keep the balance right. This prevents damage from too much salt or water. Testing sap and soil regularly shows how well plants are doing. This leads to better-tasting strawberries and more fruit over time.

Pest and Disease Management for Strawberries

Growing strawberries in a polytunnel has many benefits. But, these plants face many pests and diseases. It’s crucial to manage pests well to keep plants healthy and increase yields. Knowing common threats and taking steps to prevent them is key to a good harvest.

Common Pests Affecting Strawberry Growth

Strawberry plants face several pests that can harm their growth and quality. Here are some main pests to look out for:

Aphids – These tiny insects cluster on stems and leaves, causing leaf curl and yellowing. They also spread damaging viruses, harming plant health.
Spider Mites – They suck juices from leaves, causing stippling and yellowing. This reduces yield and quality.
Tarnished Plant Bug – This pest injects toxins, causing dwarfed shoots and blemished fruit.
White Grubs – They feed on roots, leading to plant deterioration and death.
Japanese Beetles – These beetles can cause a lot of damage. Their larvae harm plants when feeding on turf roots.
Fruit Flies – Especially the Spotted Wing Drosophila, these pests can severely damage ripe strawberries.

Spotting these pests early is key to managing them well and keeping strawberry plants healthy.

Preventative Measures and Treatments

Preventative measures are vital in reducing strawberry diseases and pests. Here are some strategies to consider:

Crop Rotation – Changing where strawberries are planted every few years disrupts pests and reduces disease.
Companion Planting – Growing certain plants with strawberries can naturally deter pests, offering extra protection.
Organic Treatments – Using neem oil or insecticidal soap can fight infestations without harming good insects.
Early Detection – Regularly checking plants for damage or disease allows for quick action, limiting spread.

By using these methods in your strawberry growing routine, you can build a strong defence against pests and diseases. This leads to healthier plants and more fruit.

Harvesting and Storing Your Strawberries

Knowing when to start harvesting strawberries is key for enjoying their taste. The timing varies by type, with June-bearing strawberries ready in early June. It’s important to pick them when they’re ripe. Look for berries that are fully red, firm, and smell sweet.

Signs of Ripeness

Here are signs to know when strawberries are ready:

Complete red colouration with no pink or white patches
Firmness when gently squeezed
Aromatic sweetness that is noticeable when near the plants

It’s crucial to pick strawberries only when they’re fully ripe. They won’t ripen after picking. Discard any overripe or damaged fruit to keep quality high.

Storing Fresh Strawberries for Longevity

After harvesting, it’s time to store strawberries properly to keep them fresh.

Here’s how to store strawberries for the longest time:

Refrigeration: Store unwashed strawberries in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about six to eight days.
Room Temperature: Strawberries at room temperature stay fresh for three to four days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze strawberries for up to a year. Flash-freezing keeps their texture, making them great for baking.

By using these storage tips, I can enjoy my strawberries for weeks. Proper harvesting and storage ensure a great strawberry experience all season long.

Berry Nutrition and Health Benefits

Strawberries are a tasty and healthy addition to any meal. They are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These berries help keep us healthy and well.

Vitamin and Antioxidant Content in Strawberries

Each cup of strawberries has about 45 calories. They are low in calories but high in berry nutrition. Strawberries are packed with:

More vitamin C than an orange
Manganese, folate, and potassium
A good source of dietary fibre
Low fat content (0.498 grams per cup)
Hydration due to high water composition (91%)

The antioxidants in strawberries fight off free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells and lead to diseases. Eating strawberries regularly can improve insulin sensitivity and lower bad cholesterol.

Health Benefits of Regular Strawberry Consumption

Eating strawberries regularly has many health benefits. Some benefits include:

Potential reduction in heart disease risk
Improved regulation of blood sugar levels
Lower risk of certain cancers due to antioxidant properties
Support for cognitive function as we age

Strawberries are also low in sugar. They have a low glycemic index score of 40. This means they don’t raise blood sugar levels much.

Nutrient	Amount per Cup (150g)
Calories	45
Protein	1.11 grams
Fat	0.498 grams
Carbohydrates	12.7 grams
Fibre	3.32 grams
Sugar	7 grams

In conclusion, strawberries are both tasty and healthy. They are a key part of a balanced diet focused on berry nutrition.

Conclusion

Growing strawberries in a polytunnel is a great way to enjoy fresh berries all year. This guide has shown how to pick the right varieties and care for the soil and plants. A polytunnel creates the perfect environment for strawberries, giving them the warmth and protection they need.

Strawberries are not just tasty; they’re also full of good stuff like vitamin C, fibre, and potassium. Eating a cup of sliced strawberries can boost your health. They might even help lower heart disease risk and fight some cancers.

If you love gardening, growing strawberries is a must-try. The joy of picking and eating your own strawberries is unmatched. Plus, their health benefits make all the hard work worth it. Start growing strawberries and enjoy the fruits of your labour!