Strawberries are surprisingly low-maintenance, but a little extra attention can mean the difference between a handful of berries and a bumper harvest. Here’s how to keep them thriving all summer long in New Brunswick.
Watering
Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, especially during dry spells.
Water at the base of the plants rather than overhead to keep leaves dry and reduce disease risk.
Container plants may need watering daily during hot weather.
Fertilizing
Mix in a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting.
Top-dress with compost or a light granular feed in early summer.
Avoid heavy nitrogen feedings, which create lush leaves but fewer berries.
Flower & Runner Management
First-Year Plants: Pinch off blossoms in the first few weeks to encourage strong root and leaf growth.
Runners: These long stems that shoot out can be trimmed if you want bigger, better berries, or allowed to root if you want to expand your patch.
Mulching
A straw mulch (true to their name!) keeps fruit clean, reduces weeds, and helps soil hold moisture.
In late fall, a thicker straw blanket protects plants through NB’s cold winters.
Pest & Disease Care
Watch for slugs, which love damp straw. A few crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth sprinkled around plants can help.
Keep an eye out for powdery mildew or leaf spots; removing affected leaves quickly keeps problems from spreading.
Rotating your strawberry patch every 3–4 years reduces soil-borne disease risks.
👉 Local tip: In New Brunswick’s humid summers, spacing and airflow are key. Don’t overcrowd your plants—healthy air circulation helps keep disease away.
