The warm weather this spring may have tempted some gardeners to remove the mulch from their strawberry beds. However, a portion of the strawberry crop may be lost if the mulch is removed too early in the spring. Removal of the mulch plus a few days of unseasonably warm weather may encourage the plants to bloom before the danger of frost or freezing temperatures is past.
Damaged blossoms have a darkened center.
Since the first flowers produce the largest berries, a late spring frost can drastically reduce yields. To reduce the chances of frost or freeze damage, gardeners should leave the mulch on until the plants show signs of growth. Periodically examine the plants under the mulch during periods of warm weather in the spring. New growth will be white or yellow in color. Rake the mulch to the center aisles between rows.