Many people after collecting the last berries simply forget about the strawberry beds until spring. But exactly now the plant is laying flower buds from which the future harvest will appear next year. If you give the bushes a little attention in August, they will reward with large, juicy berries.

1. Put the bed in order

First carefully examine each bush. Remove dry, yellowed and diseased leaves, as well as plant residues between the rows. This way you will reduce the risk of fungal diseases developing and give the plant more air and light.

2. Remove excess runners

If you do not plan to propagate strawberries, boldly cut most of the runners. They take nutrients, because of which the bush weakens. For new seedlings leave only the strongest rosettes.

3. Do not leave the ground to dry out

Even if the heat has already subsided, the strawberries continue to develop actively. Water the beds moderately but regularly. The soil should be slightly moist, without stagnation of water.

4. Feed the plants

In August strawberries need potassium and phosphorus. Exactly these help strengthen the root system and promote the laying of flower buds. But with nitrogen fertilizers one should be careful — they stimulate leaf growth instead of preparation for the new season.

5. Mulch the beds

A layer of straw, mown grass or other organic mulch will help retain moisture longer, restrain weeds and protect the roots from overheating.

6. August is a good time for planting

If you plan to renew the plantation, do not put it off. Young bushes planted in August manage to root well before the cold and already next year can delight with the first berries.

Remember a simple rule: the harvest of next summer begins not in spring, but exactly now. A few simple works in August will help the bushes enter winter strong, and next season will gift a generous collection of aromatic strawberries.

This material was prepared by the editorial team using artificial intelligence tools. All information has been verified and edited before publication.