Thanks for this great site. We just bought a farm in Western Massachusetts this fall, which had a good-sized strawberry field already planted, last year. Never having grown strawberries before, and not knowing much about them, I just let them be. So now it’s an up-and-down winter, with mild stretches followed by frigid days, and very inconsistent snow-cover, and, of course, the plants aren’t mulched at all, because I only just learned that was the thing to do.

I’m wondering what I can expect from these plants come spring, given the lack of cover. The previous owner planted four varieties, hoping for fruit succession throughout the season: Annapolis, Honeoye, Idea, Eros. He said only the first two varieties really produced well.

Anyhow, any advice or reassurance would be welcome. I can also take crushing bad news…

best wishes,
Ben

First, great site…tons of good information here. :=)

I live in Northern Virginia, and would like to grow Delmarvel. Many of the nurseries have now put up their ordering pages for spring plant shipments, but I can’t seem to find a single nursery who sells Delmarvel plants. Any hints or recommendations?

Thx

I’m using an aeroponic system so the roots are never left soaking in water. They are sprayed with water every few minutes which then drains away. The root crown is well above the water and stays dry all the time and I’m using a very bright 600Watt bulb. I think I’ll order some Tribute or Tristars per your suggestion.

Thanks Mr. Strawberry!
Patrick.

I’ve been growing 18 Fern strawberries hydroponically for a while now but I’m starting to think that Fern wasn’t the best choice in the day-neutral category. I’ve struggled with rot and leaf issues. Since I’ll do my best to control the environmental conditions and nutrients, would the best choice be a variety most resistant to disease? Looks like Albion are resistant to to verticillium wilt and various rots but maybe don’t produce as well as Evie2? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Patrick.