New growth will emerge quickly, followed by flowers. Tops should not be removed in hot weather as the crowns can be damaged. If the weather is warm, irrigate regularly after top removal. To reduce disease build-up, rake up all leaves and burn them. Growers harvest the autumn crop from early April to June, since it may be extended further with the use of plastic cloches.
Cloches protect the crop from wind, hail and heavy rain during winter and warm the air and soil.
They encourage vigorous growth, early fruiting and more even colouring of berries. However, they are only economic for producing winter crops in the Perth region, and are seldom used now. Construct cloches by erecting wire hoops about 2 m apart across the beds and covering them with a continuous sheet of clear polythene. Attach the polythene so that it can be easily rolled down to allow watering, harvesting and pest control. Uncover the cloches on hot days to avoid scorching of leaves and also in warm weather for pollination.