Wild Strawberry
fragaria vesca
Also known as: ["Alpine Strawberry","Fraise des Bois"]
Overview
A small, perennial herbaceous plant native to temperate regions, known for its small, sweet edible fruits and trifoliate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Fragaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fragaria vesca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning or runner removal is best done in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control spread.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near heat sources that can intensify light.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers cooler temperatures, especially at night; tolerates mild frosts.
Use shade cloth in summer; group plants to create microclimates; monitor nighttime temps for frost risk.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding; stop fertilizing when plants are dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of runners; runners are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy runners or stems.
- Cut just below a node.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plants are actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also root runners directly in water.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new plants can be established in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use runners for fastest results; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity for successful rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off runners at the base; trim back overgrown stems; remove yellowing or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves; trim runners to encourage bushier growth; thin overcrowded plants for better air circulation.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruners, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; remove dead foliage; trim runners; thin overcrowded areas.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; overcrowding reduces vigor and fruit production.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower/fruit drop; browning leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can damage tender leaves or flowers; may enter dormancy in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection with row covers or mulch; move potted plants indoors during freezes; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; reduced flowering and fruiting; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water deeply to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFragaria vesca is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is safe for consumption, and there are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicFragaria vesca is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is safe for consumption, and there are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicFragaria vesca, commonly known as wild strawberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is widely consumed for its edible fruits and is not associated with significant toxic effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are wild strawberries edible?
A: Yes, the fruits of Fragaria vesca are edible and highly prized for their sweet flavor.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Wild strawberries thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How do I propagate wild strawberries?
A: Propagation is typically done through runners or by planting seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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