Strawberry Growing Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

Ready to grow your best strawberries? Learn what mistakes to avoid at all costs! This video shares expert tips on watering, spacing, and pest control and more. Watch to discover the secrets for growing lush, fruitful strawberry plants!
🌻MOTHER’S DAY SALE: 50% off CaliKim Seed Collections with code “MOM”, calikimgardenandhome.com. Ends 5.13.24.
*May “Power Producer” Grow Your Groceries w/ CaliKim Subscription Box: bit.ly/CaliKimGrowYourGroceri.... $20 off 1st box w/code “CONNECTMAY”. Free Smart Pot 1 gallon transplanter in each box. Vist smartpots.com for fabric containers of all sizes.
IN THIS VIDEO:
*Monterey Lawn & Garden Sluggo Plus: www.montereylawngarden.com/pr..., 10% off with code “CALIKIM10”, or on Amazon: amzn.to/44uMsTb.
*Smart Pots: 10% off at smartpots.com with code “calikim”
-Crate liners: smartpots.com/product/smart-p...
-NoCoco hanging basket liners: smartpots.com/product/smart-p...
*CaliKim 5 gallon Smart Pots:
*Plastic stackable crates: amzn.to/3WxprwD
*Drip Irrigation Kit: amzn.to/30jSLYq
*Red watering can: amzn.to/3WA4OAg
*Fish fertilizer: amzn.to/3QAuGbc
*Vermisterra worm tea: 10% off with code “calikim” at vermisterra.com
*Shade cloth: amzn.to/4a9j7yF
*Clean shredded straw: amzn.to/3UvZ08g
WATCH THESE VIDEOS FOR MORE:
bit.ly/CaliKimDoubleRaisedBed...
bit.ly/CaliKimMayMustPlantCrops
bit.ly/CaliKimRaisedBedMistakes
bit.ly/CaliKimTrellisesNoCost...
bit.ly/CaliKimDIYSimpleBasicR...
BOOKS
The First-Time Gardener: Raised Bed Gardening: bit.ly/TheFirstTimeGardenerRa...
Organic Gardening for Everyone: Homegrown Vegetables Made Easy: bit.ly/OrganicGardeningForEve...
SEEDS
CaliKim Seed Collections: calikimgardenandhome.com
CONTAINERS
CaliKim 1, 5, 10 gallon Smart Pots, Little Shorty 3' fabric raised bed: calikimgardenandhome.com/coll...
Smart Pots (other sizes): use. code “calikim” for 10% off at smartpots.com
What size Smart Pot? smartpots.com/what-size-smart...
PEST & DISEASE CONTROL:
Monterey Lawn & Garden: www.montereylawngarden.com. Use code "CALIKIM10" for 10% off sitewide.
SOIL AMENDMENTS & FERTILIZER
Vermisterra: vermisterra.com
Worm castings, Vitality, Worm tea
10% off with code “calikim”
DIGITAL TABLE OF CONTENTS:
00:00 Introduction
00:44 1. Don't bury the crown
01:07 2. Planting only 1 variety
02:10 3. Inconsistent watering feeding
03:34 4. Unchecked runners
04:57 5. Overcrowding
06:08 6. Wrong location
07:14 7. Forgetting to mulch
08:19 8. Ignoring pest control
Music: TrackTribe - Strollin’
AMAZON:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases:
SHADE CLOTH: amzn.to/42AvvEU
GROW LIGHTS
1. CLAMP LIGHT SET UP
-8.5” clamp light: amzn.to/3abeO8k
-LED bulbs: amzn.to/3DJVQGd
2. GROW LIGHT BOX
-8.5” clamp light: amzn.to/3abeO8k
-LED bulbs: amzn.to/3DJVQGd
-30 gallon storage tote: bit.ly/CaliKim30GallonStorageTote
3. SHOP LIGHT SET UP :
-4 foot Shop light fixture with LED bulbs: amzn.to/2QSd4ZS
-2 foot Shop light fixture with LED bulbs: amzn.to/3qC9hzx
-S hooks: amzn.to/3GF9R7x
4. SHELVES
2 foot, 5 shelf adjustable: amzn.to/3NXL6I1
3 foot, 5 shelf adjustable: amzn.to/3nxwkMi
4 foor, 6 shelf adjustable: amzn.to/3AjaXnj
5. TIMERS:
Timer power strip: amzn.to/37cesP9
Digital timer: amzn.to/3qJRIN7
SEED STARTING SUPPLIES
Seed starting pots: amzn.to/3tfsKXK
Seed starting cells: amzn.to/3JLsZVH
Peat pellets: Large ( 3”, 50mm): amzn.to/37u3RiB
Small (1”, 36mm): amzn.to/35RP2Cx
Plant labels (colored: ) amzn.to/3bLNCjv
Plant trays: amzn.to/36YPO1U
Heat mat: amzn.to/2FS1I1W
DIY seed starting mix:
Vermiculite, organic: amzn.to/3scmFdV
Coco coir bricks: amzn.to/2ZABUkQ
Yellow Sticky Traps: amzn.to/3Xf5NDR
DRIP IRRIGATION/WATERING
Raised Bed Drip Irrigation Kit: amzn.to/30jSLYq
Landscape Staples: amzn.to/2Ro85iP
Moisture meter: amzn.to/2tbXDD6
Amazon general links:
General search page: amzn.to/3897OqD
Seed starting supplies: amzn.to/30kbmDG
Garden fertilizers:amzn.to/2uQkhBh
Garden disease and pest control: amzn.to/2FMw6L7
Grow Lights: amzn.to/2NlY5FB
Garden Tools: amzn.to/2RiwRRq
Amazon lawn & garden supplies: amzn.to/30kFe2Z
WHERE TO FIND ME:
Seed & Garden Shop:calikimgardenandhome.com
Instagram: CaliKim: / calikim29
CameraGuy: / calicameraguy
Facebook Page: / calikimgardenandhomediy

[@debbiejasinski567]

Happy Birthday Mac🎉. Thanks for this great video!

[@samvandie8215]

It's time to watch kims videos all over again! , hence the season has BEGUN! 😊😂

[@CaliKim29]

Here we gooooo!

[@lorenzshawl8230]

A BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to MAC he is a DARLING 💕💕💕

[@eviemaddox3038]

This is my first year with strawberries. I bought a few plants, some bare roots, and also started some from seeds from strawberries I bought from the store. Seeds take FOREVER. But everyone should learn how to do it. I started them hydroponically during the winter. They are doing great in the soil now. Today I picked one ripe strawberry from one of the plants I had bought and put it in my pocket because I had fish emulsion on my hands and didn't want the smell to ruin my strawberry experience. 10 minutes later, it was squished in my pocket, but I still ate it and it was yummy!

[@CaliKim29]

EXCELLENT job, Evie!!! I have to laugh about your squished strawberry/pocket!!! Oh, that made my day!!! Great work!

[@VHYYZ2023]

Thank you so much ❤! Your video helps me for my first time strawberry plants.

[@lorimalone3210]

Happy Birthday, Mac! Great video! I always learn something new ❤

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you! 😃. CK

[@orthocrofty]

Man, this was just what I needed!!! Especially showing how to thin the bed! You’d be amazed how hard that specific help is to find on the internet!!! I’ve been trying to figure out how to manage our bed for a month and haven’t found info so helpful! Thanks!!!

[@CaliKim29]

I LOVE this!!! Thanks for sharing this with me!! OH, please do subscribe if you have not!!! Great job!

[@nealgreenstein2227]

I have a couple butternut squash that are just getting their second leaves. I’m glad to hear it’s still good to plant in July. I also have some of your red pollinator collection going 🎉🎉

[@drurymassey]

I’m going to be using all of your strategies!!! Happy Birthday 🎉 to your fur baby.

[@CaliKim29]

Yay! Thank you! Mac says thanks!!

[@pamkilgore8004]

Happy birthday, Mac! 🎉

[@jberge58]

Thank you. I am a new strawberry Gardner and I needed the tips!

[@CaliKim29]

Glad it was helpful! Do me a favor, keep us all posted how it goes, okay? THANK YOU for subbing and clicking on the thumbs up button of each video you watch - that really helps our channel! Let us know how this goes!

[@risestevenson99]

Thank you, just what I need. I just enrolled in your class(subscribed ❤). Appreciate you

[@brucevivers166]

Happy Birthday Mac. Rooting my runners tomorrow and adding shade cloth to cool things down.

[@CaliKim29]

Nice, Bruce!!!

[@SaraSmiles82723]

Same! Game changers 👏

[@pattyfitz317]

Happy Birthday Max!!!

[@LanaiDebbie]

Always good tips in your videos. Thanks for all the great information!1 ❤

[@CaliKim29]

Thanks for watching!

[@neetabedi2487]

Very useful tips beautiful way of explaining Thanks.

[@CaliKim29]

Most welcome 😊 CK

[@charlesbale8376]

Enjoyed the video and found the information very useful..

[@CaliKim29]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching, Charles. Are you growing a garden right now ?

[@trulyblessedsharia2681]

Great video Thank You so much🍓🍓

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you! Please thumbs up the video and subscribe if you have not already (I can't always tell who has subscribed)! CaliKim Where are you and what are you growing?

[@angelspodcast1111]

I needed to see this thanks for the education ❤

[@CaliKim29]

Perfect ! I love when that happens!! CK

[@kericarlson1194]

Happy Birthday sweet pup!

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you!!

[@TheNatureBoy1]

Hello Miss Kim. Thanks for your knowledge . I'm a new gardener, 2nd year. 31 from ohio. I feel your passion for gardening in your words and that's what I wanna be

[@CaliKim29]

Well, that’s fantastic! Thank you so much for watching and I think it would be good if you subscribed to the channel and turned on notifications so you can be notified when new videos upload. I think you might also be interested in my live stream on Mondays 12 PM Pacific time Except for holidays. But there’s a great garden community there that you can interact with as well as direct questions with SmartPots containers team and Monterey lawn and garden team! 😎CaliKim

[@lens7859]

Happy Birthday Max !

[@joanmacleod1362]

Happy birthday Mac. This is my second year growing strawberries. I lost half of last years plants due to cold. I am just planting new ones this week. Cheers from chilly east coast of Canada 🇨🇦

[@CaliKim29]

Mac says 'thanks'. Glad to hear you haven't given up, Joan. Way to keep going/growing. One step at a time. Thank you for watching and commenting! CK

[@stephaniegee227]

Happy birthday, Mac!

[@PorchGardeningWithPassion]

Very cool! My Albion Strawberries are looking perfect in my 15 gallon grow bags. My dollar tree stackers are also looking wonderful after tons of Spring rain 👊🏻🌻👊🏻

[@CaliKim29]

LOVE this !!!!! Great job!! CK

[@dovinhgarden05]

Tận dụng sọt nhựa trồng dâu tây quá tuyệt vời❤

[@lashanngobert5637]

Fantastic!

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you! Cheers! CK

[@anitahamlin2411]

Happy birthday Mac!

[@jelatinosa]

Happy birthday Mac! Such a good Garden Dog!

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you!! He is really chill for a border collie - he just enjoys being out there with me!!! Thank you for subbing me! Where are you and what are you growing right now? CK

[@jelatinosa]

@@CaliKim29 Hi Kim! Been subbed for about a decade! I'm in Puerto Rico, zone 12 maybe. I have banana, a pineapple, aloe, passion fruit vine, tumeric, ginger, yautia(potato-like tuber), basil, bunching onion, and flowers growing in my small garden. I brought a strawberry plant, but it died, so your video gave me some insight at why it might be.

[@CaliKim29]

That’s a wonderful, thanks for subbing! (I can’t always tell who is a subscriber or not.) Oh my goodness, what you are growing sounds fabulous!

[@patriciafarran9742]

Thank you. I like your quick to the point video, just subscribed. 😊

[@CaliKim29]

Welcome, Patricia! Great to have you!! Thank you for the compliment on the video, before I forget to tell you! So tell me where you are and what you have growing right now! Thank you!! CaliKim

[@patriciafarran9742]

@@CaliKim29 Thank you. I live in the PNW, Portland Oregon. It finally warmed up. It was cold and raining up until last Wednesday; extended rainy season for us. I just planted three varieties of tomato, two varieties of squash, two varieties of cucumber, and strawberries. My spinach and parsley are still doing well from last fall. I also have one watermelon starter I have to plant, we’ll see, we don’t have a very long growing season here, but I’ll try. 😊 Next trip to the nursery, I’ll pick up a few flowering plants that attract pollinators and put them close to my food garden.

[@Mustardseedhomesteading]

Thank you for this video!! Very helpful!!

[@CaliKim29]

You are so welcome!! Thank you for watching - sorry for my delay..heckofaweek. Kim

[@Mustardseedhomesteading]

It’s ok I totally understand 😊🌻 Thanks, Megan

[@donnadavey4427]

Hello CaliKim, I’m a new subscriber and a first time gardener 🌱Love the content on your channel very informative and helpful! Happy Birthday Max…🐶❤

[@CaliKim29]

Thanks for subbing and welcome!! I hope my videos are inspiring and equipping you for gardening! Tell me where you are and what you are growing right now? Oh and...Mac says "thank you". CaliKim

[@michaelhenning259]

Ty CK

[@Cakepan45]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

[@albertnett7864]

Great video.

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you !! CaliKim

[@SaraSmiles82723]

Happy 1️⃣3️⃣th Birthday Mac 🎉

[@LanaiDebbie]

Happy Birthday Max! 🎈

[@CaliKim29]

Sweet of you Debbie, Mac's ears went up when we told him you said HBD! Mahalo

[@mneraasen224]

Happy Birthday Mac🥳 My pup will be 17 on Friday 🙌🏻 She is a mixed chihuahua.

[@alicearroyo5910]

Happy birthday Mac

[@rebeccawatson9284]

What a good birthday boy! He's always by your side.

[@daygirl2659]

Happy Birthday MAC ❤🤗Hope you have a great day in the garden😊Psst Mac, those red things spilling over the raised beds are delicious! Don’t tell CaliKim that I told you😉😉

[@CaliKim29]

Hey now ….

[@waldorules7725]

The trough is so cool! Found it at an antique show, and it had natural holes. I placed pea gravel under it for better drainage. We have a ton of trees, so finding a sunny spot has gotten a little tricky. I’ve been gardening for years, but never with fruits and veggies. This year I pulled out all the stops (recently retired). I believe I’m subscribed but will double check. Thank you for your tips! 😊

[@CaliKim29]

Yes, it's perfectly fine to add earthworms to a composting system, such as a bucket, and feed them small amounts of kitchen scraps. Earthworms are excellent decomposers and play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter into nutrient-rich compost. When feeding earthworms kitchen scraps, it's important to provide them with a balanced diet. Avoid feeding them large amounts of acidic or oily foods, dairy products, meat, or citrus fruits! CK

[@waldorules7725]

Thank you again and Happy Birthday to Mac! 🎉🐾

[@lilithelieshere]

Hiya! These strawberries look amazing! Just so you know, that yellow mustard plant in the red pot is super invasive in many areas and if left to go to seed will spread to your whole garden and neighbors. Sorry for the unsolicited advice!!

[@CaliKim29]

Thanks for the tip! Not a problem, thanks. Just tell me you’ve subscribed !! 😀 CK

[@tenjed4224]

I'm learning how invasive thyme can be. I need to pull it out of the bed I am currently growing it in, and put it in its own grow bag.

[@rockyusa2012]

Happy 13th birthday Mac 🐕 🎉 🎂 👏

[@donnacharm9383]

🎉❤ Happy birthday 🎂 Mac 🎈 thank you for sharing tips on strawberries I never have luck I think I buried the crowns.

[@CaliKim29]

Yep, that could do it! But that's cool, Donna, that you realized that now...so you know going forward NOT to do that! That is the fun part of gardening!! Thank you for watching and commenting. I hope you are subscriber, I enjoyed your comment! CaliKim

[@FlorBantique]

❤ thanks for this tips too🎉

[@CaliKim29]

You're so welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@FlorBantique]

Not all people can And you shared and explain very well ❤️🪻🌻💐☀️

[@deboz8793]

Woof, Woof, Mac! (Happy Birthday Mac!) Well, this explains why my strawberry production hasn’t been that great before. I’m always forgetting to feed my crops, strawberries and everything else.

[@CaliKim29]

Hmm, how do we fix that? The forgetting part?? I totally get it. You are not alone but it’ll click one of these times !!! CK

[@deboz8793]

@@CaliKim29 😂😂😂

[@maroon24722]

I wait all year for May in Lancaster county PA. THE Amish farm have the most amazing berrries!

[@CaliKim29]

Which of these mistakes have you made? Thanks for gardening with us! -CaliKim & CameraGuy 🌻MOTHER’S DAY SALE: 50% off CaliKim Seed Collections with code “MOM”, calikimgardenandhome.com. Ends 5.13.24. *May “Power Producer” Grow Your Groceries w/ CaliKim Subscription Box: bit.ly/CaliKimGrowYourGroceriesConnectPlusSubscriptionBox. $20 off 1st box w/code “CONNECTMAY”. Free Smart Pot 1 gallon transplanter in each box. Vist smartpots.com for fabric containers of all sizes.

[@joncloutier9597]

Thank you, great video solid tips. New subscriber here. 👍

[@CaliKim29]

Awesome, thank you and WELCOME to my channel, Jon. Tell me about where you are gardening from and what you are growing right now? You may enjoy my livestreams every Monday *except holidays* the chatting starts with other gardeners at 11:30am. Live starts at 12pm. We have team from SmartPot and Monterey Lawn and Garden on the lives, too, available for their insight, to all gardeners. Pretty cool. Thank you again - and I look forward to hearing from you - CaliKim

[@anniedove]

Thank you so much, CaliKim for this video info.💌 I'm planting strawberries this week.🍓 I had some come up from seed, too. 😯I'm stoked. 🤗 Got my sluggo ready to go, too! 🐌 Happy Birthday, Mac, handsome guy!🥳🥳🥳 Big hugs & head pats to you, and blessings of longevity on you, pup.🐶 Every garden should have such a cool canine mascot🥰😎🌻🥳🙏

[@CaliKim29]

So nice of you, Annie, your comment really made me smile - you positivity and love Mac! Great work on the strawberry planting ! Keep everyone posted! Thank you! CK

[@anniedove]

@@CaliKim29 will do for sure❤️👍

[@patcombs6235]

I'm new at growing strawberries. Someone told me to pinch off the first blooms ,and you'll get bigger strawberries. True or false?

[@patcombs6235]

Also I love your border collie, I've had 3 in the past and miss them greatly. ❤

[@CaliKim29]

Not a true or false. You can do it, but you are not always guaranteed bigger strawberries, but it is, however, what I do.

[@saafi838]

Hi Kim your videos are full of knowledge thank for all the strategies, I have just started my strawberry gardening, mine is flowering and then dying can you please give any tips, also have subscribed so i don't miss any of your videos. Happy birthday Max🎂

[@CaliKim29]

@saafi838 why thank you for subscribing and clicking the thumbs up button! So kind of you! Keep me posted on what you are growing and how it is all going - oh, and, Mac says Hi and Thanks for the birthday wishes - CaliKim

[@BrusePerron]

nice video

[@CaliKim29]

Glad you enjoyed it, Bruse. Are you growing strawberries in your garden? Thanks for watching!

[@user-qc5so8mp3h]

روعة

[@lisahill2154]

happy bday Mack! my doggies are about the same age

[@CaliKim29]

Precious, aren't they, Lisa? CK

[@richardeicholtz4868]

Happy Birthday Mac

[@CaliKim29]

Mac says Thanks, Richard. *wink

[@richardeicholtz4868]

@@CaliKim29 No problem. Also I corrected the spelling. He must be addressed properly! Great video BTW thank you

[@teriwilliams4212]

Happy 13th Birthday to handsome Mac. Good to know about planting different types of strawberries together. I only have one kind and they aren’t producing much yet. Although they did during the winter. 🤷‍♀️

[@CaliKim29]

Thanks so much

[@santaanaroadwildman3614]

Happy Birthday MAC! My small neglected terra cotta "strawberry planter" (would be better for cactus/succulent) blew up with what must be everbearing this week! 🍓

[@CaliKim29]

Niiiiice !! Great job, as always. CK

[@angelasmith2140]

Happy birthday Max

[@CaliKim29]

Hi Angela, thanks! I'll pass it unto Mac! CK/CG

[@irawanicci]

Good👍👍👍

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@jeanbrennan7238]

Happy birthday :)

[@GardeningFeedingCookingFolk]

Một sáng kiến trồng dâu Tây rất tốt 🍓.

[@CaliKim29]

Thank you. I hope it was helpful!!! Thank you for watching and commenting. CaliKim

[@mcgritty8842]

Happy 13th birthday Mac!!! Another great video Kim! ❤❤❤ Turns out that I’m doing strawberries well. Got 6 out of 8 bases covered. Only growing Everbearing (bought a flat of 6 to share with mom) and inconsistent watering/feeding, which I’m working on figuring out. Straw mulch has helped a ton with that 😅 I do have a question about the leaves. Some of mine have areas that are kinda dark; some around edges and some towards the middle. Should I be concerned or is it normal? I’ve seen other peoples strawberry plants have them too ❤❤❤❤❤ Gonna look into the Monterey line for sure, slugs like our sunflower patch (rip to my moms sunflowers) 😢 In the Livestream there was a spray that helped with powdery mildew; gonna grab that too. ❤

[@CaliKim29]

Dark areas on strawberry leaves can be a sign of fungal disease, nutrient deficiency, or environmental stress. It’s important to accurately diagnose the issue by closely inspecting the leaves and considering recent care and environmental conditions. Look closely at the pattern and location of the dark areas. Check for other symptoms such as white powder (powdery mildew), concentric rings (leaf spot), or irregular patterns (leaf blight). Early intervention, such as removing affected leaves, improving plant care, and using appropriate treatments, can help manage and mitigate these problems. If the issue persists or worsens, consider consulting with a local Nursery for their input - CaliKim

[@tenjed4224]

I thought i might be doing something wrong as to why most of my strawberry roots haven't grown, yet. Only 2 have given off fruit. It's too hot and I need to shade them. Thankfully I picked up shade cloth recently as the place I go to had them on sale. The temp here is now close to 100 and we still have July and August, when it gets hotter. Thank you.

[@brianseybert192]

Since I started mulching my strawberries with wood chips over shredded leaves (because of jumping worms) and a perennial cover crop of thyme, my strawberries have really almost doubled in size. I believe it is due to the increase in the fungal composition of the soil. All I fertilize with is home raised worm castings and a few compost/worm teas throughout the year. One year I gave too much nitrogen, had huge plants but tiny berries. Enjoy your channel, Stay Well!!!!

[@CaliKim29]

Great report, Brian!!! You are doing great!!! Keep it up and keep us all posted, CaliKim

[@user-fy7cp9yw7y]

Thanks for sharing this video. I am interested in the first strawberry arrangement in the crate. Are these stackable and lined?

[@CaliKim29]

Yes and yes! HA HA! They are stackable and lined with SmartPot Crate Liner - avaialble at Smartpots.com. You can get the liners with 10% off (everything helps, right?) Use the code CALIKIM . Let me know! CaliKim

[@terryjbrown6953]

Happy Birthday, Max 🍖! Hi Kim, I have a couple of questions. 1. Can you put ground up eggshells in all your vegetables that you plant in the soil that are in containers? 2. Do you have to put both liquid and granular fertilizer in your containers and how often should you feed the fertilizer to your vegetables?

[@CaliKim29]

Good question. Answer: Yes and yes. Eggshells are a natural source of calcium, can help prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes, peppers, and other plants. And, can deter certain pests, like slugs and snails, due to their sharp edges. Sidenote: do not rely on eggshells alone to fertilize..use worm castings, granular fertilizers, etc. Granular fertilizer is timed slow release (overtime) applied every 2 mos.. Water soluble, is immediate nutrients to the plant, applied every 2-3 weeks. Note the containers need fed more often thus the high frequency I noted above. Hope this helps, Terry and let me know when you do this! Please subscribe if you haven't and click the thumbs up for the videos that you watch - as this helps the channel in return. CaliKim

[@terryjbrown6953]

@@CaliKim29 Thank you so much Kim! I have been a subscriber for a while now!!!

[@CaliKim29]

OK, thank you! (I can’t always tell who is a subscriber.)

[@waldorules7725]

I am definitely learning a lot. I sure wish I saw these videos sooner… Lol! I purchased a large old trough that I thought would be fun to plant strawberries and flowers, etc. The strawberries on the edge are doing the best because the strawberries can hang over the edge, so it looks like it’s best to give them a place where they can hang? Also, my adorable dachshund has found the strawberries… He loves strawberries! I am considering moving these to a different area and maybe in a hanging basket, but it does get really hot here in the summertime so I am worried about them drying out there. I like your crate method. Where did you get your crates? Do you purchase these or ask a store for them? I don’t want to have to put a fence around my cute trough. Love your videos! 😊

[@CaliKim29]

Glad to hear you are learning a lot. The old trough sounds nice and earthy. Does it have holes to drain ? As for letting them hang, yes. That is the idea. Note that drainage and heat protection are critical. Remember the black shade cloth !!! LOL on your dachshund!!! The crates I found were old milk crates - they are firmer and stronger than the dollar store thin, flimsy crates. Be aware of the build Of the crates you consider using! Doing great out there ! Keep it going- one step at a time! Love your energy - have you subscribed yet?? Thank you for watching and commenting ! CaliKim

[@Fred.pSonic]

Calling CaliKim..I need tips on when to pick fully ripe strawberries for maximum flavor. Some folks say pick on a sunny day, others say early in the morning. I've read don't water for 2-3 days prior to picking otherwise the flavor will be diluted. Some say store them in the fridge to keep longer while others say no keep them on the counter and that each method of storage can affect the sweetness. Confer with birthday boy Mac on what this strawberry rookie should do--thanks!

[@CaliKim29]

Fred, I talked to Mac, he says: I can't speak to all of those examples given but I can say the following: -Look for fully red berries. Strawberries do not ripen further after picking, so choose berries that are uniformly red with no green or white tips. the berries should be firm and plump, not soft or mushy. -Ideally, pick strawberries in the morning when they are cool and have had a chance to plump up with moisture overnight. -If the plants or berries are wet from rain or irrigation, allow them to dry before picking to prevent diluting the flavor. Mac & Kim

[@MultiWater123]

Thank you for such a great infos on strawberry; this is the first year that I'm planting and I need to know these. How do I keep my strawberry that is in the strawberry pot in winter? Do I get them out or leave them where they are? thanks,

[@CaliKim29]

If you have space, bringing the strawberry pot indoors to an unheated garage, shed, or basement can protect the plants from the harshest winter conditions. Ensure the location stays cool but does not freeze, ideally between 35-45°F (1.5-7°C). Hope this helps - CK

[@R_H21]

Happy Birthday, Mac! I’m sad that he’s getting old…. I haven’t been on here for a while, need to catch up….. but how is your lemon tree? Is it thriving in the pot, or have you transplanted it to the ground?

[@CaliKim29]

Yes , is, too about Mac. Well…good to have you back. If you would - please click the thumbs up button under each video you watch as that helps my channel!!! Of course, subscribe, but you already knew that ! Thanks for saying, Hi 👋. CaliKim

[@jeremystreet951]

Does your crate tower protect from earwigs?

[@WithdealingsNhealings]

Happy Birthday

[@WithdealingsNhealings]

Thanks for the tips and tricks, love your videos

[@CaliKim29]

Mac says thanks 🙏!

[@michaelhenning259]

I live in Tennessee, when is the best time to plant strawberries? Thanks

[@CaliKim29]

In Tennessee, the best time to plant strawberries is typically in the early spring, around late March to early April. This timing allows the plants to establish their root systems before the hot summer weather sets in. Here are some pointers - There are three main types of strawberries you can choose from: June-bearing: These produce one large crop in late spring to early summer. They are the most common type and are well-suited for Tennessee. Ever-bearing: These produce two to three harvests throughout the growing season (spring, summer, and fall). Day-neutral: These produce fruit continuously throughout the growing season, as long as the temperature stays between 35°F and 85°F. Let me know which you choose! Thanks for your comments, Michael. CK

[@michaelhenning259]

How many strawberry plants would you generally start in a 5 gallon container?...ty

[@CaliKim29]

In a 5-gallon container, it is generally best to start with one to two strawberry plants. This allows each plant enough space to grow and spread out, ensuring they have adequate access to nutrients, water, and sunlight. Overcrowding the container can lead to poor air circulation, increased risk of disease, and competition for resources, which can hinder plant growth and fruit production. I hope this helps - Michael. Thanks for commenting! CaliKim

[@harleyb.birdwhisperer]

I tried straw mulch, didn’t much like it. Harbored pests, grew grassy weeds in my pots and the berries burrowed down through. I switched to coconut fiber - much better.

[@CaliKim29]

Very good! Way to adapt ! Impressive!! Keep it going! CK

[@semizyan]

Is the straw you use Organic? I have almost never came across Organic one. I try not to use anything that is GMO. Thoughts??

[@CaliKim29]

Yes, it is. The link is in the video description (always read my video descriptions for deets). Thank you for watching. All about the organic when possible. Thank YOU for following all of these years. CK

[@semizyan]

@@CaliKim29 and thank you for posting very enjoyable and informative videos as always!!!

[@raymondthach4165]

I bought the strawberry crowd, but they have not grown yet. It looks dry and dieing

[@CaliKim29]

Some things you can check Raymond.... Check soil moisture - make sure it's not dry. Make sure the plant can get enough sunlight where it's at right now. Prune away dead parts of crown/plant as they are using up the plants' resources. Ferilize and protect/check for pests. Let's start there and see if this helps! Go for it and let us all know - the plants need those basic things to be strong! CaliKim

[@patsamler2742]

What about when white fuzzy fungi starts to grow in the strawberries? This just started to happen to mine and it’s been very rainy here

[@CaliKim29]

Most likely powdery mildew - that thrives in humid conditions, especially during periods of frequent rain. We need to get your plants some air + a few other things. Try this - Prune. Remove and discard any affected plant parts, such as leaves or stems showing signs of powdery mildew. This can help reduce the spread of the fungus. Increase Air Circulation around your plants by spacing them adequately and pruning to allow for better airflow. This can help reduce humidity levels. Avoid overhead watering. You've got some work to do! Let us know how it goes - don't beat yourself up over this --- it happens and now you know, right? Look forward to hearing from you - Thank you for watching and commenting. CaliKim. Please be sure to like the video and subscribe if you have not already!

[@IAMGiftbearer]

What kind of strawberries are those that have yellow flowers! I've only seen white and pink flowers on strawberries.

[@CaliKim29]

I believe those were Mustard Greens were going to flower (not Strawberries) they kind of meshed in together. CK. Thanks for watching - CK

[@somai_1]

None of my strawberries survived over winter even though I mulched them. Do you have any suggestions?

[@CaliKim29]

There's so many reason/variables here....let me ask you this....did you do any of the mistakes that the video said to avoid? Sorry to hear, Soma! CK

[@katherinejackson1653]

Does the “Slugo” kill earth worms?

[@CaliKim29]

Good question. No, Sluggo does not kill earth worms - CK

[@user-sc6zh3uk9b]

I have noticed something else about strawberries is the more that they are waters with county that they don't have any flavor. I would like to know if any other people noticed it?

[@CaliKim29]

Can't say that I have ... CK

[@scientious]

Grocery store strawberries are big and look good, but have about half the flavor. Tomatoes are similar.

[@CaliKim29]

100% AGREE!!!!! Good call. CK

[@daysinmylife9901]

My last years runner plants did not come back this year

[@CaliKim29]

So sorry to hear! UGH. We keep on, right...

[@chrissy4782]

🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓🍓 When I purchased my first plant, the pot was labeled “ever bearing” but I only ever see fruit in June. What’s wrong?

[@CaliKim29]

That's odd. I wonder if it was truly mislabeled? Everbearing plants typically produce two main crops: one in early summer and another in late summer to fall, with some fruiting sporadically throughout the season. Since confirming the plant type maybe more work than it's worth at this point (that's your decision to make) perhaps scrap it and start over? Sorry about this, Chrissy - CaliKim

[@JJchildofYAH]

I need to continuously trim the leaves on my strawberry plants...the leaves get huge, and too crowded. Is this ok, to trim the leaves back? Such big problems with aphids this year, a huge infestation on all plants.

[@CaliKim29]

Yes, it's perfectly fine to trim the leaves on your strawberry plants, especially if they're becoming overcrowded or if the leaves are getting too large. Doing so will help the following: better air circulation, allowing more light to come in, so more resources go to the plant. Win-Win! Aphids, UGH. Been there done that. What I would do in your case is quickly apply Monterey's Take Down - an organic insecticide that contains natural pyrethrins derived from chrysanthemum flowers.Take Down contains pyrethrins, which have a QUICK knockdown effect on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. Take Down RTU *ready to use, which means you don't have to mix with water, ,etc. It's ready to be used out of the bottle, is approved for organic gardening and is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI). And, it's Safe for Beneficial Insects - ladybugs, lacewings, and bees. It's a must-have weapon in your garden bag. Get it here: www.montereylawngarden.com/product/take-down-garden-spray-rtu/ Use this discount code CALIKIM10 at check out for 10% off. Hang in there, you've got a lot going on! Thank you for watching, please subscribe and thumbs up to any of my videos you watch - that helps my channel on KZbin!! Watch me use Take Down in my May Garden Tour video - at 6:15 Thank you for watching, Julia - CaliKim

[@zlatamontgomery1593]

My Strawberry any time I was buy It’s dead

[@CaliKim29]

Yah, maybe, unfortunately. Sorry to hear. CK

[@jiujitsuforall8627]

We've already had to battle the dang earwigs here in So Cal in early May!!! I've been having good success with Seven, sprayed twice a week for one week.

[@CaliKim29]

Yes, the battle is real !! Very good that you’ve got an effective system working for you ! Keep it going - CaliKim