Slugs and snails avoid copper because it causes a mild shock-like effect when they come into contact with it. To help prevent these problems, it’s a good idea to place a fabric strawberry mat (available from Marshalls) around the base of each plant – this will also act as a moisture-retaining mulch. When slugs and snails attempt to move onto the fabric they feel discomfort and either move off or stay still. They do well in a wide range of soil types, provided they are well drained and hold sufficient organic matter.

Alternatively, tuck a few handfuls of fresh straw under each plant and rest the leaves, flowers and fruit trusses on this material. Keep the area clean by removing any debris such as soil and leaves, as this will help to maintain the effectiveness of the barrier.Fortunately, they are one of the easiest and most reliable fruits to grow and ideal for raising either in the open ground or in containers on the terrace. There are also perpetual varieties available, which can be used to extend the season by producing fruits from August to the first frosts.

Viruses are usually spread by aphids, but soil pathogens - fungi, nematodes and eelworms - can also be responsible.

com/products/gardening-naturally-strawberry-mats-x-6-10903803 4417657602099 Gardening Naturally Strawberry Mats x 6 12. Mount Everest climbs to around one metre, so can be trained against a trellis or up a sweet pea frame. Most strawberries produce a single crop between late May and late July and they are classified as early, mid or late season depending on when they ripen during this period.

The willow-hurdle edge adds a rustic touch and is practical, too – on windy sites, it stops the straw blowing away. If it's a plastic mulch, then you'd need room around the crown to let the rain in, plus some slug pellets underneath as a precaution. Container-grown strawberries also need to be replaced after four years, but only because here viruses are transmitted by aphids, not soil-borne organisms. The young fruits are often targeted by birds, so it may be worth pushing short sticks into the ground in the four corners of the bed (so the tips are just above the top of the plants) and securing bird-scaring tape between them. I use the under side which isn't as smooth as the surface side so I'm hoping the slugs won't like to go over it.These collars are designed to stop slugs and snails from reaching the base of the plant, effectively preventing damage to the fruit and leaves. We are read by an informed, educated readership who can add their knowledge and insights to our stories. Quote from: Goosegirl on November 05, 2015, 12:57 James Wong says that studies have shown that strawbs planted through a red plastic mulch tricks them into thinking they have nearby competitors so they produce bigger and sweeter fruit. The plants should be given a dose of fertiliser in the spring and again after they have been rejuvenated, as well as being watered regularly (aim to keep the soil damp, but not saturated). The strawberry mats are the perfect solution for protecting your strawberry plants from pesky slugs and snails.

Suitable for a range of plants, including hostas and lettuce, this 6 pack of mats are reusable and will last for years. I don't see why putting red objects close to them shouldn't work just as well - not sure about that though. Strawberry plants growing in containers are more easily protected by simply draping a sheet of netting over the top (something you shouldn’t do with an entire bed because birds will likely get trapped underneath).

Help the soil retain both moisture and warmth by placing these organic fyba mats around the base of strawberry plants, the mats will also protect the crop from soil and rain splashes, keep lower leaves clean and dry and help deter slugs - Also suitable for lettuces and newly planted shrubs and roses. Rejuvenate strawberry plants by cutting them back when they have finished fruiting and applying a feed.