Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet'

Introduction to Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet'

Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet' is a charming and productive alpine strawberry variety known for its sweet, aromatic berries and compact growth habit. Unlike larger commercial strawberries, 'Gourmet' produces small, intensely flavoured fruits that are ideal for eating fresh, adding to desserts, or even drying for snacks. This variety also adds ornamental appeal to gardens, thanks to its pretty white flowers and neat mounding form.

Perfect for growing in borders, containers, hanging baskets, or even as ground cover, 'Gourmet' strawberries are easy to grow and will often fruit continuously from late spring into autumn. Their hardiness, resilience, and delightful taste make them a great addition to edible gardens or mixed plantings.

Planting and Positioning

Planting Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet' in the right conditions will ensure a healthy plant with a generous fruit yield.

• Light Requirements:

  • Prefers full sun for best fruiting, though it can tolerate partial shade.

  • More sunlight leads to sweeter, more abundant berries.

• Soil Needs:

  • Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.

  • A neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal.

  • Avoid heavy clay or very dry sandy soils unless amended.

• Planting Time:

  • Best planted in spring or autumn.

  • Allow space of 20–30cm between plants to ensure good airflow and reduce disease risk.

• Positioning Tips:

  • Ideal for raised beds, herbaceous borders, rock gardens, or containers.

  • Also works beautifully as an edible ground cover or edging plant.

  • Great for balcony and patio gardens where space is limited.

• Container Growth:

  • Performs well in pots with good drainage and regular watering.

  • Use a peat-free multi-purpose compost with added grit for aeration.

General Care and Maintenance

Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet' is low maintenance and will reward basic care with a reliable crop of delicious berries.

• Watering:

  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods and while fruiting.

  • Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases—water at the base.

• Feeding:

  • Apply a balanced liquid feed every 2–3 weeks during the growing and fruiting season.

  • Mulch around plants with compost or straw to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

• Fruiting Season:

  • Produces fruit from late spring to early autumn.

  • Regular picking encourages continued fruiting.

• Pruning and Maintenance:

  • Remove old leaves and runners after fruiting to tidy the plant and conserve energy.

  • Pinch off runners if you want to keep plants compact; leave them on if propagating.

• Pests and Diseases:

  • Generally pest resistant, but watch for slugs, aphids, and vine weevils.

  • Netting may be required to keep birds off the ripening fruit.

  • Good spacing and airflow help prevent mildew and grey mould.

• Winter Care:

  • Hardy and can survive frost once established.

  • In very cold areas, a light mulch of straw or fleece can protect roots.

Additional Notes and Garden Uses

Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet' is as versatile in the garden as it is in the kitchen.

• Edible and Ornamental Value:

  • Combines beautiful white flowers, lush green foliage, and tasty red fruit.

  • Adds charm and function to cottage gardens, kitchen gardens, and children's plots.

• Wildlife Friendly:

  • Attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

  • Also appreciated by birds and other garden wildlife, so be ready to share!

• Harvesting Tips:

  • Pick berries when fully red and ripe—best eaten straight from the plant.

  • Store in a cool place or refrigerate shortly after picking for best freshness.

• Propagation:

  • Easily propagated via runners in late summer.

  • Can also be grown from seed, though it takes longer to establish.

• Companion Planting:

  • Pairs well with herbs like thyme and chives, or with leafy vegetables like spinach.

  • Avoid planting near brassicas as they may compete for nutrients.

Fragaria vesca 'Gourmet' is a rewarding plant that offers beauty, flavour, and simplicity. Ideal for gardeners of all levels, it brings a touch of sweetness to any space it grows in

• Size
  P12

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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