Field strawberry - Regina

1. Sowing Indoors or Outdoors:

   - Indoors: Start seeds indoors 8–12 weeks before the last frost to get a head start on the growing season.

     - Sow seeds on the surface of a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix. Do not cover the seeds, as they need light to germinate.

     - Keep the tray in a warm, bright location or under grow lights. Cold stratification may be required to help germination.

     - To cold-stratify: Place the seeds in a plastic bag with some moist sand or vermiculite and refrigerate for 3 weeks before sowing.

     - Germination typically takes 2–3 weeks at 60–70°F (15–21°C). 

   - Outdoors: Direct sow outdoors in early spring, after the last frost, or in fall.

     - Sow seeds on the surface of prepared soil and gently press them in. Do not cover the seeds, as they need light for germination.

     - Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Germination can take 3–4 weeks.

2. Sunlight and Soil:

   - Sunlight: Strawberries need full sun to produce the best fruit. Aim for 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

   - Soil: Prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5). If your soil is heavy, consider amending it with compost or organic matter to improve drainage.

     - Raised beds are an excellent option for strawberries to ensure proper drainage.

3. Watering:

   - Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Strawberries prefer regular watering, especially during fruiting, but they don’t like to sit in water.

   - Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote fungal diseases.

4. Care:

   - Mulching: Apply mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots. Straw, pine needles, or wood chips work well.

   - Fertilizing: Strawberries benefit from light feeding with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilize once in early spring as new growth begins and again after harvest.

   - Pruning: After the first year, prune back old leaves and runners to encourage new growth. Remove any weak or damaged plants during the growing season.

5. Pest and Disease Control:

   - Watch for slugs, aphids, and spider mites. Use organic pest control like neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage these pests.

   - For diseases like powdery mildew or gray mold, ensure proper air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.

6. Harvesting:

   - Fruit: Harvest strawberries when they are fully ripe, turning a deep red color. Gently pick the berries by pinching the stem just above the fruit.

   - Yield: Keep in mind that strawberries from seed may take 1–2 years to produce a significant harvest.

7. General Tips:

   - Regina is a wild strawberry variety, known for its sweet, aromatic fruit and compact growth habit. These strawberries are excellent for containers, hanging baskets, or as ground cover in garden beds.

   - Pollination: Strawberries are self-pollinating, but having pollinators like bees nearby will increase fruit production.

Field Strawberry 'Regina' is a fantastic option for small gardens, containers, or even hanging baskets. The deliciously sweet fruit makes it perfect for fresh eating, jams, and desserts. This variety is also known for its resilience and low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.