Page 9 - aug21_Neat

growing - Strawberries

Fragaria × ananassa is the most
commonly grown hybrid of
strawberry (Fragaria). There are
over a hundred species of
strawberries and according to Kew’s
Plants of the World Online, none are
native to Africa.

WHY - For the fruit, which is widely BENEFITS - Raw strawberries are 91%
appreciated for its aroma, sweetness, water, 8% carbohydrates, 1% protein, and
and delicious taste. It can be eaten contain negligible fat. They are also a good
fresh, or made into jams, or preserves, source of manganese and provides several
as well as dried. other vitamins and dietary minerals in small
amounts. They are very attractive in hanging
HOW TO PLANT - Plants are baskets or in the garden, and the red fruit
susceptible to pests and disease, so are a favourite so make sure to harvest
it is easiest to grow strawberries in quickly before the birds or bugs get to them.
pots, or raised mounds mulched with The aroma and dainty flowers are also lovely.
straw around the base of the plants.
Plugs planted in plastic covered PROPAGATE - The easiest way of propagating
mounds helps reduce competition strawberries is from runners (stolons).
from weeds. They like fertile, WHERE - Strawberry plants can be
free-draining soil and to be watered bought from many nurseries around the
well. They also like good light but country, and a wild variety is usually available
can suffer if not watered sufficiently. at Sanitas. S.C (pics Pixabay)

9