Description

“Quinault” is a popular everbearing strawberry that produces large, delicious fruit. Equally at home in the garden or a container, “Quinault” is sure to impress. Excellent hardiness for Alaska.

Strawberries work well in Alaska, though many people grow them as annuals. Strawberries make good container plants, and are also at home in raised beds.

Planting:

Cultivate soil at least 6” and add organic material, if needed. Plant strawberry plants 8-12” apart. Strawberries are very sensitive to planting depth and must be planted so that the crown of the plant is not below the soil, or it will rot. Plant so that all the roots are covered, but the crown (where the leaves come out) is above soil.

Pruning and Care:

Strawberries develop lots of runners. Prune so that any plant does not produce more than 4 runners over the summer. To create more plants, pin the runners against the soil, wait for roots to establish, then cut the runner from the mother plant.

Strawberries appreciate mulch in both the summer and winter. Remove mulch in spring to allow soil to thaw sooner, then reapply after soil has warmed. Make sure strawberries are topped with thick mulch before winter to protect their roots.  

Harvest

Harvest strawberries when fully red. Harvest often as the fruit can easily rot.

Pests

Slugs, birds, and kids enjoy strawberries. Provide the protection needed for each.