TeCH Up Solutions

Most of the strawberries varieties
available in Zimbabwe are hardy annual,
warm-season that is sensitive to winter.
With an average daily mean temperature of
20°C to 24 °C is optimum for growth, yield
and fruit quality.

If possible, avoid planting strawberries
near or in fields that have had tobacco,
peppers, eggplants, tomatoes or
potatoes. These plants and vegetables are
affected by many of the same pests and
diseases as strawberries.

Strawberries should not follow potatoes
or tomatoes because both crops can infect
the soil with nematodes and verticillium
wilt, a disease that seriously affects the
growth of, or kill strawberries. Potatoes left
in the ground can also be a problem and
getting rid of them may interfere with the
roots of the strawberry plants.

Time of planting has an important
bearing on the amount of fruit that will be
produced in the first full cropping year.
Early planting runners before July will give
the heaviest yields; from as much as
450-800g per plant depending on the
variety.
Even though strawberries can be grown
on all kinds of soils, where the addition of
organic matter will not only improve the soil
but aid drainage, farmer’s should lime their
soil to a pH of 5.5-6.5 for quality fruits.

For more knowledge and info about FARMING contact the HURUDZA PLUS PLATFORM ON +263786522548. ASK ANY QUESTION ABOUT FARMING ON THAT NUMBER.