Bare root strawberries and strawberry plant plugs differ in the presence of soil around their roots. Bare root strawberries are just the crown without any soil, while plugs include cell trays with potting soil and roots.
When choosing between bare root strawberries and strawberry plant plugs, it’s important to consider their differences to know which one suits your gardening needs. Bare root strawberry plants are popular because they are easier to store and ship, and they require less effort to plant.
On the other hand, strawberry plant plugs may be a better option if you want more established plants since they come with soil and roots that have matured in the cell trays. Additionally, plugs may have a higher success rate and may be less likely to experience transplant shock. Ultimately, the decision between bare root strawberries or strawberry plant plugs depends on your personal preferences, skills, and goals as a gardener.
Types Of Strawberry Plants
Both bare root and plug strawberry plants have their advantages. Bare root strawberry plants have easier storage and shipping, while strawberry plant plugs have living, growing roots and soil. Consider your needs and preferences when deciding which type to buy.
Bare root strawberries and strawberry plant plugs are two types of strawberry plants you will have to choose from when buying. Bare root strawberries are the root of the strawberry plant without potting soil or leaves and are popular as they are easier and cheaper to store and ship. To plant, the roots first need to be hydrated and soaked. On the other hand, strawberry plant plugs come with potting soil and living, growing roots. When comparing the two, the difference mainly lies in the presence or absence of soil. Both types of strawberry plants have their own benefits, and it ultimately depends on your personal preference. Know what works best for your climate and soil type before deciding which one to choose.Credit: www.epicgardening.com
Benefits Of Bare Root Strawberries
Benefits of Bare Root Strawberries |
Ease of Storage and Shipping |
Bare root strawberries are popular because of the ease in which they can be stored and shipped. The strawberry crowns can be easily wrapped and stored in a cool, dry place for several days or even weeks before planting. These plants are also lightweight and take up less space, making them convenient to transport without the need for excess packing materials. This results in a lower cost for both the grower and consumer. |
Bare root strawberries also offer the advantage of being easier to plant than plug strawberries. Without soil, bare root plants have less weight and are simpler to position into the ground. Additionally, bare root strawberries have higher survival rates when compared to plug strawberries. This is because the plants are in a dormant stage and can concentrate their energy on developing roots and top growth once planted. Overall, bare root strawberries are a great option for individuals looking for a cost-effective, space-saving, and easy-to-plant solution for adding fresh strawberries to their garden.
Benefits Of Strawberry Plant Plugs
Strawberry plant plugs have numerous benefits compared to bare root strawberries. With plug strawberries, they have living, growing roots and come with cell trays filled with potting soil, which make them easier to plant and transplant. Additionally, plug strawberries have higher survival rates, making them a more viable option for farmers and homeowners alike.
BENEFITS OF STRAWBERRY PLANT PLUGS |
Higher Survival Rate |
Unlike bare root strawberries, plant plugs are sold in cell trays full of potting soil and living, growing roots. This gives them a higher survival rate as they are well-established when planted. Bare root strawberries, on the other hand, are just the strawberry crown and have no leaves or soil attached to their roots. This makes it difficult for them to survive transplanting as they take time to establish their root systems. |
Faster Growth |
Plant plugs have a head start when it comes to growth as they are already established in potting soil and have a developed root system. This means they will start producing fruits in their first year of planting. Bare root strawberries, on the other hand, take time to establish their roots and may not produce fruits until their second year of planting. |
How To Plant Bare Root Strawberries
When deciding on planting bare root strawberries or strawberry plant plugs, consider the presence of soil. Bare root strawberries are simply the crown, typically without any soil, while plugs include cell trays with potting soil and roots. Bare root strawberries are popular due to their easier storage and shipping.
To plant bare root strawberries, it is essential to prepare the planting bed first. Remove all weeds and debris from the bed and loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. Unwrap the bare root strawberries and soak them in water for a few hours to hydrate them before planting. If the roots look dry, soak them for a longer period. Before planting, dig small holes, and place the roots and stem into the hole about an inch above the crown level. Gently backfill the hole with loose soil and press it down lightly to remove air pockets. Water the plants thoroughly after planting, and spread a layer of mulch around them to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. With proper care, bare root strawberries can grow into healthy plants that produce a bumper crop of sweet, juicy fruit.How To Plant Strawberry Plant Plugs
When it comes to planting strawberries, both bare root and plant plugs have their advantages. Plant plugs are easier to handle and have a higher survival rate, while bare root strawberries are popular due to their ease of storage and shipping.
Regardless of which type you choose, proper preparation of the planting bed, hydration, soaking of roots, and planting depth are crucial for successful growth.
Planting strawberry plant plugs requires preparation of the potting soil. The soil should be rich in nutrients and well-draining. Use a mixture of peat moss and perlite to create an optimal growing environment for your plants. Before planting, ensure that the soil is moist but not saturated. This will help the roots establish properly and avoid root rot. When planting, create a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the roots of the plug but not too deep that you cover the crown. Once planted, ensure the soil is firmly pressed around the roots. Water the plants thoroughly and keep them moist in the days following planting. Place them in a sunny location and cover with a layer of mulch to retain moisture.Credit: strawberryplants.org
Comparison Of Bare Root Strawberries And Strawberry Plant Plugs
Bare root strawberries and strawberry plant plugs each have their own advantages. Bare root strawberries are easier to store and ship, while strawberry plant plugs have soil and growing roots. Ultimately, the choice comes down to individual preference and needs.
Bare root strawberries and strawberry plant plugs both have their pros and cons. When it comes to survival rate, bare root strawberries have a higher chance of survival since they are typically younger plants. In terms of vigor, bare root plants may take longer to establish but can end up producing larger yields. Cost-wise, bare root strawberries are generally less expensive than strawberry plant plugs. However, strawberry plant plugs may be more convenient for those who want a ready-to-go plant. The decision on which to choose ultimately comes down to personal preference and growing conditions. It’s important to do research on both options before making a decision and to make sure to properly plant and care for whichever type of strawberry plant is chosen.Credit: fff.hort.purdue.edu
Frequently Asked Questions Of Are Bare Root Strawberries Or Strawberry Plant Plugs Better?
What Is The Difference Between Bare Root And Plug Strawberries?
Bare root strawberries are just the crown without soil, while plugs include soil and growing roots. Bare root strawberries are popular for being easy to store and ship.
What Is The Difference Between Bare Root And Plug?
Bare root strawberries are just the crown without soil, while plugs include soil and roots. The main advantage of bare root strawberries is their easier storage and shipping. Meanwhile, plugs have a higher survival rate due to their established root system.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and growing conditions.
Are Bare Root Strawberry Plants Good?
Bare root strawberry plants are good because they are easier to store and ship. They arrive as just the crown without any leaves or soil. They can be stored for up to two weeks and should be hydrated before planting.
Bare root strawberries are a popular planting choice.
How Long Will Bare Root Strawberry Plants Last?
Bare root strawberry plants ideally should be planted promptly upon receiving them but can last up to 2 weeks under certain conditions. To prevent drying out during shipping, keep them in the original plastic bag and mist them lightly with water.
Conclusion
Both bare root strawberries and strawberry plant plugs have their benefits, but ultimately it depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re short on space and want a quicker harvest, plugs may be the more convenient option. However, if you’re willing to put in a bit more effort and have the space, bare root strawberries can provide a cost-effective and plentiful yield.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to follow proper planting and care instructions for healthy, delicious strawberries.
I am a graduate of Bangladesh Agricultural University, where I delved into various agricultural disciplines, equipping me with a profound understanding of agriculture. Beyond academics, I have hands-on experience in gardening and crop cultivation. My passion is to embrace sustainable farming and horticulture. With a BSc in Agriculture, I am dedicated to promoting environmentally conscious and efficient agrarian practices.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture (Hons.)
Master of Science. (Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security ) (MS)
Bangladesh Agricultural University