Overview of Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa
Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa is a hybrid plant of the Rosaceae family known as the garden strawberry. It is an aggregate fruit that is widely grown for its edible fruit, distinct aroma, and bright color. The plant is believed to have originated in Europe, but different varieties have been selectively bred and grown worldwide, especially in regions with temperate climates.
Common Names
The garden strawberry has several common names, including just strawberry, fragaria, and wild strawberry. It may also be referred to by its scientific name Fragaria ×ananassa or simply its genus name, Fragaria. In some regions, people call these plants differently depending on the variety and the unique characteristics exhibited by the fruits.
Appearance
The garden strawberry is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows close to the ground, rarely above two feet in height. It has a single stem with trifoliate leaves that range in size between 1.5 to 5.5 cm in length. The plant's flowers are white, about 1 cm in diameter, and have five petals. The fruit of the garden strawberry is a small red accessory aggregate fruit, often called a false fruit or pseudocarp. Each berry contains several small brownish-yellow seeds protruding from the surface.
Uses
People grow Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa for various purposes, including as an ornamental plant, a source of medicinal extracts, and for its edible fruits. The fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C and are often eaten fresh, cooked, or added to drinks. In some countries, especially those with a free market economy, the garden strawberry is a profitable cash crop that contributes significantly to the country's gross domestic product (GDP).
Light Requirements
Fragaria ×ananassa var. ananassa requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and fruit production. The plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown in partial shade, the yield and quality of fruits will be significantly reduced.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Fragaria ×ananassa var. ananassa is between 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) may cause damage to the plant and decrease fruit production. However, the plant can tolerate slightly higher temperatures as long as it receives adequate water and nutrients.
Soil Requirements
Fragaria ×ananassa var. ananassa thrives in well-drained loamy soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can cause root rot and other diseases. The plant requires good drainage to prevent standing water around the roots. It is recommended to add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation methods
Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa, commonly known as strawberry, requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows best in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. The ideal temperature for cultivation ranges between 60°F and 80°F, and the plant prefers a humid atmosphere.
You can cultivate strawberries from seed or runners. Runners are the stolons that emerge from the base of the mother plant, and they develop into new plants. When cultivating from runners, ensure the new plants are spaced appropriately – about 24-36 inches apart. Keep the soil moist during planting and for the first few weeks until the plants become established.
Watering needs
Strawberries require consistent soil moisture, and the plant should be watered regularly. Check the soil moisture daily by inserting your finger into the soil about an inch deep. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot, which is lethal to the plant. Water the plant at the base to prevent the foliage and fruit from getting wet.
Fertilization
Strawberries are heavy feeders, and fertilization is essential for optimal growth and fruit production. Fertilize the plant before planting and again when new growth appears. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 16-16-16. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet of planting area. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers like fish emulsion or compost tea.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of the strawberry plant. Prune the plant after fruiting by removing the dead leaves and runners. Cut back the foliage to about one inch above the crown, leaving the center leaves intact. Removing excess foliage helps to improve air circulation and prevent fungal infections.
Propagation of Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa
Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa is commonly known as the garden strawberry. Strawberries are relatively easy to propagate and can be done through various methods.
Propagating by Runners
One of the easiest ways to propagate strawberries is through runners. Runners are stems that grow out from the parent plant and form new roots and a new plantlet. To propagate by runners, allow the runners to grow until they develop roots. Cut the runner between the new plantlet and the parent plant, and transplant the new plant into a separate pot or location in the garden.
Propagating by Division
Another way to propagate strawberries is through division. This method is best for established plants that have developed a lot of crowns. Dig up the plant and gently pull apart the crowns, making sure each divided section has a healthy root system. Replant each section in a new location.
Propagating by Seed
Strawberries can also be propagated through seed, but keep in mind that this method can be unreliable, as seeds don't always produce the same variety as the parent plant. To do this, collect the seeds from ripe strawberries and plant in a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate within a few weeks. Transplant the seedlings to a bigger pot when they've grown a few inches tall.
Overall, propagating Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa can be a simple and rewarding task for gardeners of all levels.
Disease Management
The Fragaria ×ananassa Duchesne (pro sp.) var. ananassa, commonly referred to as the strawberry plant, is susceptible to several diseases that can significantly impact its growth and productivity. Below are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Gray Mold
Gray mold is a fungal disease that affects the strawberry plant's leaves, flowers, and fruits. The disease is characterized by grayish-brown spores that appear on the infected plant parts. To manage gray mold, it is essential to maintain proper plant spacing to ensure adequate air circulation and reduce humidity levels. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease. You can also use fungicides to control gray mold.
Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to turn brown and die. The leaves of infected plants also turn yellow and wilt. The best way to manage verticillium wilt is to use disease-resistant varieties. You can also practice crop rotation to reduce the disease's incidence.
Pest Management
The strawberry plant is also susceptible to several pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Below are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Strawberry Bud Weevil
The strawberry bud weevil is a pest that feeds on the plant's flower buds, causing deformed fruits. To manage the pest, it is essential to maintain proper plant hygiene by removing and disposing of plant debris. You can also use insecticides to control the pest.
Two-Spotted Spider Mites
Two-spotted spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's leaves, leaving behind a bronze appearance. The feeding can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage the pest, it is essential to maintain proper plant hygiene by removing and disposing of plant debris. You can also use miticides to control the pest.
