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. Fall set strawberry plants do 
equally as well or better than spring set plants. See article on 
fall set plants page 12. 
Care of Plants 
Before setting, the roots should be covered with water so 
that they may soak up all water possible. This will aid in car- 
rying the plant until feeder roots can be sent out. Before 
and during the planting, keep plants protected from wind and 
sun, and moist at all times. If plants cannot be set soon after 
arrival, they should be removed from the crate, the packing 
material moistened, and repacked loosely. Stored in a cool, 
damp place they will keep in good condition three or four days. 
If plants must be kept longer, they should be kept in com- 
mercial cold storage around 32 degrees, or the bundles should 
be opened and the plants heeled in a V-shape trench. A few 
cautions on heeling in: spread the plants thinly so the soil 
contacts all roots, pack the soil firmly back in the trench up 
even with the crowns. Keep shaded and water thoroughly, es- 
pecially if weather is warm. 
Too Deep Too High Just Right 
Planting 
The important points are to have roots straight down with 
the soil packed firmly for their entire length and the crown 
even with the surface. Proper depth is very important (see 
illustration). Roots should be clipped if too long to get in 
straight. 
Fertilizer and Manure 
Well rotted stable manure, compost or similar materials 
16 
