For monthly strawberries, sowing is the only method of propagation. The sowing of other strawberry varieties serves as an exciting variant for offspring breeding. Find out about the right approach here.
Harvest seeds on your own
Although their name suggests otherwise, strawberries are an aggregate fruit. This circumstance implies that there is an ample amount of seed immediately on the pericarp. By splitting a ripe strawberry, letting the cut side dry on kitchen paper, you'll reap seeds in abundance. From a botanical point of view, the tiny yellow nuts are the actual fruits.
The seeds are stored in a dry, cool and dark place because they germinate in the light.
Instructions for sowing indoors
The ideal period for sowing strawberry seeds extends from the end of February to the beginning of March. Follow these steps to sow:
- soak the seeds in water at room temperature for a few hours
- fill a large seed tray with commercially available seed soil, peat sand or coconut fibres
- sow the seeds and sieve minimally with substrate, sand or vermiculite
- moisten with a fine shower and place in the greenhouse
- alternatively cover a transparent film or put on a pane of glass
- keep in a partially shaded place at a germination temperature of 18 degrees
Germination takes between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on the strawberry variety. If the two cotyledons present themselves, the cover is aired daily. The seed must not dry out during this phase and should find the light conditions as bright as possible.
Skilful pricking with sensitivity
Loving care allows the strawberry seedlings to grow quickly. Within a short period of time, there is an urgent sense of narrowness within the small community. High time to plant the strongest specimens in their own pots. Ideally, you use special pricking soil, which is filled a few centimeters high in the pot. Make a hollow in it.
With a good dose of instinct, each seedling is lifted out of the seed tray with the pricking stick to move into its new location. Only plant the young plant so deep that the heart bud is above the substrate.
tips and tricks
If the seeds swell in chamomile tea, this measure promotes the resistance of strawberry plants to fungal diseases. Pour seeds and tea into a thermos to keep the temperature at the desired lukewarm level.