This is the best way to get through the cold

Hibernate hanging strawberries - step-by-step instructions

Cutting back after the last strawberry harvest is the first step on the way to wintering. Modified care follows, which prepares hanging strawberries for winter. The final measure before the first frost is a warm winter coat. The following instructions will guide you step by step through the simple program:

Cut strawberries in the traffic light

At the end of the harvest season, preparation for winter starts with a Cut back. Cut back the tendrils without damaging the heart of the perennial. On this occasion, remove the withered leaves and the last remains of flowers.

Exception: freshly planted in the traffic light Hanging strawberries are not pruned before winter.

Set maintenance to winter mode

In autumn, strawberries receive their main fertilization in the traffic light. Adjust the water supply to the greatly reduced evaporation rate as a result of the strong pruning. This care prepares hanging strawberries for winter:

• Organically fertilize hanging strawberries after pruning
• Apply liquid fertilizer or loosen up the substrate and work in sifted compost
• Water more sparingly

Please rely on your instinct when pouring. The strawberry plants are - apart from their heart leaves - without foliage and quickly suffer from waterlogging. Only when you can no longer feel any moisture in the upper substrate layers, pour sips at a time.

Equip strawberry traffic lights with winter protection

If the weather report announces the first frosty nights, it is time for suitable winter protection at the strawberry traffic light. How to protect hanging strawberries against frost:

• Cover hanging traffic lights with winter fleece
• Cover substrate with straw, Sawdust, Bark mulch or leaves
• Important: Do not cover the strawberry plant so that it can breathe

In cold winter regions, to be on the safe side, place a breathable fleece or fir twigs over the strawberry plant in the traffic light. On frost-free days, use a finger test to check whether the strawberry traffic light should be watered.