When you receive dormant, bareroot strawberry plants by mail in November, proper care and storage are essential to ensure they remain healthy and ready for planting in the spring. Dormant strawberry plants are in a state of hibernation, meaning they must be kept cool and moist to maintain their viability. However, improper storage can lead to issues like mold development, which can threaten the plants’ health. This comprehensive guide will help you store your bareroot strawberries safely and prevent common problems like mold growth.
Inspect Upon Arrival
The first step upon receiving your dormant, bareroot strawberry plants is to inspect them carefully. Look for any signs of mold, rot, or damage. Healthy plants should have firm, white roots with no foul odor. If you find any damaged or decaying parts, trim them off with clean, sterilized scissors or pruners. This initial inspection is crucial to identifying any potential issues early on.
The Risk of Mold Development
One of the main challenges in storing bareroot strawberries is preventing mold growth. Mold can develop due to excess moisture, inadequate air circulation, improper storage conditions, pre-existing mold spores, and damaged roots.
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Excess Moisture: If the roots are too wet, the constant moisture can create an ideal environment for mold. It's essential to keep the roots slightly moist but not saturated. If the storage material, such as moss or paper, is too wet, it can contribute to mold growth.
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Lack of Air Circulation: Storing roots in an airtight container or wrapping them too tightly in plastic can lead to mold development. Proper air circulation is vital to prevent this. Consider storing the roots in a perforated bag or loosely wrapped in breathable material like paper.
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Improper Storage Conditions: Storing the plants in an area that is too warm or where the temperature fluctuates can cause the roots to sweat, increasing the humidity around them. This environment is conducive to mold growth. Additionally, if the storage area is not cool enough, the plants may partially come out of dormancy, further increasing the risk of mold.
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Pre-existing Mold Spores: Sometimes, mold spores might be present on the roots before or during shipping. If the storage conditions are favorable—damp and warm—these spores can multiply quickly.
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Damaged Roots: Any cuts or bruises on the roots can serve as entry points for mold. Handle the plants carefully to avoid damaging them.
Proper Storage Techniques
To store your bareroot strawberries correctly, follow these steps:
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Moisture Control: Keep the roots slightly moist by ensuring the wrapping material is damp but not wet. If the roots appear dry, you can lightly mist them with water. However, be careful not to overdo it, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth.
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Cool Storage: Store the plants in a cool, dark place where the temperature remains consistently between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C). An ideal location might be a refrigerator, a cold basement, or an unheated garage. The goal is to keep the plants cold enough to remain dormant but not so cold that they freeze.
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Regular Monitoring: Check your bareroot strawberries every few weeks throughout the winter. Ensure they are not drying out and that there is no mold or rot developing. If you notice the roots drying out, mist them lightly. If you find mold, remove the affected areas and consider airing out the roots before rewrapping them.
Preparing for Spring Planting
As spring approaches and the ground begins to thaw, it’s time to prepare your bareroot strawberries for planting. A few days before you plan to plant, take the strawberries out of storage and rehydrate them by soaking the roots in a bucket of water for about an hour. This will revive them from dormancy. After soaking, allow them to drain and then plant them in well-prepared soil.
In Summary
By following these steps, you can effectively store your dormant, bareroot strawberries through the winter and ensure they are ready to thrive when planted in the spring. Proper moisture control, cool storage, and regular monitoring are key to preventing mold development and keeping your plants healthy. With the right care, your bareroot strawberries will reward you with a bountiful harvest in the growing season ahead.
