Strawberry Alpine Yellow Wonder

Description

Strawberry Alpine Yellow Wonder

Strawberry Alpine Yellow Wonder. An unusual Alpine Strawberry producing creamy yellow fruit in abundance all summer on 6-8” plants. The fruit is considered far superior in taste and fragrance to its red cousins and much sought after in finer restaurants. In 2007 trials this variety was deemed one of the most productive of all Alpine varieties. One the best aspects of this variety are that birds do not seem attracted to the fruits due to the colour. Ideal as a border plants or for use as ground cover. They propagate primarily from seed rather than runners as their larger cousins. Hardy Perennial (OP).

Cultivation Advice

• Choose a location with well-draining soil, preferably slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Plant Alpine strawberries in early spring or late summer, ensuring they have enough time to establish before extreme weather conditions.
• Provide full to partial sunlight for optimal fruiting. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Enhance the soil with well-rotted compost or organic matter before planting. Good soil preparation is crucial for healthy root development.
• Follow the spacing recommendations on the seed packet or from the nursery. Generally, Alpine strawberries are spaced 12-18 inches apart.
• Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods and when the plants are flowering and producing fruit.
• Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil before planting. During the growing season, provide light fertilization, avoiding excessive nitrogen.
• Regularly prune Alpine strawberries, including Yellow Wonder, to remove old leaves and encourage new growth. This promotes better air circulation and reduces the risk of diseases.
• Harvest ripe berries regularly to encourage continuous fruiting. Yellow Wonder strawberries typically have a unique flavor profile, so enjoy them fresh or use them in culinary applications.
• Maintain proper spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Provide seasonal feeding with a balanced, organic fertilizer to support the plants during periods of active growth.
• Planting companion herbs or flowers like basil or marigolds can deter pests and enhance the overall garden ecosystem.
• Yellow Wonder strawberries are well-suited for container gardening. Consider growing them in hanging baskets or pots if space is limited or if you want better control over soil conditions.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to protect them during the winter, especially in colder climates. This helps insulate the soil and shields the plants from extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Consider pinching off the first set of flowers that appear early in the growing season. This encourages the plants to focus on establishing a strong root system before putting energy into fruit production, resulting in healthier plants.
• Protect the ripening berries from birds by using netting. Yellow Wonder strawberries, like other varieties, can be attractive to birds, and netting can help prevent fruit loss.
• Water in the morning to allow any excess moisture on the foliage to dry throughout the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Growing Yellow Wonder strawberries in elevated planters or hanging baskets not only provides a visually appealing display but also helps protect the fruit from ground-dwelling pests.
• Explore vertical gardening options, such as trellises or wall-mounted containers, to maximize space and create an attractive strawberry display.
• If growing Yellow Wonder strawberries in containers, provide extra care during the winter. Move containers to a sheltered location or wrap them with insulating materials to protect against freezing temperatures.
• Periodically check the soil pH and adjust it if necessary to maintain the preferred slightly acidic to neutral range for Alpine strawberries, including Yellow Wonder.
• Keep a gardening journal to record planting dates, observations, and any issues encountered. This information can be valuable for planning future crops and addressing challenges.
• Consider periodically amending the soil with well-rotted compost or organic matter to replenish nutrients and maintain soil structure.
• Harvest Yellow Wonder strawberries continuously throughout the growing season. This not only ensures that you enjoy the freshest berries but also encourages the plant to produce more fruit.
• Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests such as aphids or spider mites. If pests are detected, use organic controls or insecticidal soap to manage the infestation.