strawberries

powdrill · Joined: 10 Jan 2006 Posts: 2 Location: Weston,TEXAS

I live in Weston (North Tx) and would like to know what is the best kind of strawberries to plant.
Thanks

Tony M · Joined: 31 Mar 2003 Posts: 1087 Location: McKinney,TEXAS

I live down the road from you on FM 543. We tried three varieties last year with mixed but unacceptable results. The berries were small, mishappen and covered with pill bugs. We tried several different things to improve the situation but gave up. I don't want to work that hard on any one plant. Good Luck in your efforts.
Tony M

Tricky Grama · Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 8:41 am Post subject: strawberries

Tony-
Which 3 varieties did you plant? How did you amend the soil? I have an open area that I'd like to try strawberries & need to check HG's book-I think he has something on strawberries in it.
Patty

Tricky Grama · Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 8:56 am Post subject: strawberries

From HG's TX Gardening the Natural Way-
Best perennials- Sunrise, Pocahontas, Cardinal, & Allstar.
Best annuals- Sequoia, Chandler, Fresno, Tiogo, Tangi, & Douglas.
They need well-drained highly organic soil. Raised beds are best. Matted row or perennials should be planted in the winter (Dec-Feb). Harvest about 16 mo later in Apr or May. Annuals are planted in the fall (Nov) & harvested in the next spring (Feb-Mar). Use transplants only.
Hope this helps!
Patty

Health Helper · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Posts: 56 Location: McKinney,TX

I live just down the road from you too. I have about an acre of wild blackberries growing in my fields that produced gallons of wonderful, delicious berries last May and June. I am going to try strawberries in my garden too this year, but thought I would suggest that you think about trying some raspberries or blackberries too which do quite well in this area.