First 
Plant early in the spring, just as soon as weather conditions 
permit preparing the soil. 
Second 
_ Renew at least part of your plantings every year. A plant- 
Ing is usually considered good for two years fruiting, with 
proper cultivation and favorable weather. Normally with 
second year beds, blossoms appear earlier and are therefore 
more subject to frost damage. Berries are usually smaller than 
the first year’s fruiting. By renewing at least part of your 
plantings each year, you will be assured a more constant sup- 
ply of the finest quality berries. Taken year after year, straw- 
berries are the most productive and among the most profitable 
of the small fruits. Berries every year are your assurance of 
highest returns. 
Third 
Set good plants. Quality and vitality of plants will largely 
influence growth and production. Vigorous, healthy plants as- 
sure high yields and big returns. 
Soil 
Select good soil, well supplied with humus (cover crops), 
and well drained. Land that has previously had thorough culti- 
vation is best. 
Preparing the Land 
When plans can be made ahead, it is well to plow down 
a cover crop preceding planting strawberries. This will increase 
fertility, improve physical condition and also aid in retaining 
moisture. Plowing down weeds in the fall while green is also 
a good practice, adding humus and preventing the maturing 
of seed. The land should be plowed as early in the spring as 
possible and harrowed and dragged until a firm, even plant bed 
is formed; rows then marked out three and one-half to four feet 
apart. A horse-drawn marker is best with a large planting. 
With a small planting a line or hoe is satisfactory. 
Time to Plant 
Early spring is the best time to set strawberry plants. 
Plants should be set as soon as the ground can be worked. 
Light frosts that do not heave the ground will not injure the 
plants. We cannot stress too greatly the importance of early 
planting. The plants are then fully dormant and the weather 
is most favorable to their becoming established. 
Early planting is the most important single factor in suc- 
cessful strawberry culture. April in the North; March and 
April in the Central States. 
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