Strawberry flowers and small fruit in winter
Should I remove strawberry flowers and small green fruit in winter?
Yes. In mild winter weather, strawberry plants can sometimes start flowering and producing small green fruit. This can happen on newly divided plants as well as freshly purchased strawberry plants.
Remove the flowers and small fruit regularly until about September. At this time of year, the fruit is unlikely to develop into ripe strawberries, but it will still take energy from the plant.
By removing winter flowers and small fruit, the plant can put its energy into developing strong, healthy growth before the main strawberry season begins.
Also make sure young strawberry plants do not become too wet over winter. If planting into garden beds, raise the planting area slightly above the existing soil level to help improve drainage and reduce the risk of waterlogged roots. Get more helpful advice in our strawberry guide.