The second benefit of thinning is to promote larger fruit on this year's crop. Generally, an average spacing throughout a tree of about 4 inches per fruit is sufficient for a good return crop next year, as well as a desirable size on the fruits to be harvested this fall. Not all trees need thinning each year. Freezes during the bloom period may damage the fruit flowers and buds resulting in naturally thinned trees. Remove Strawberry Blossoms on Newly Planted Strawberries Spring-bearing strawberry plants that were set out this spring should have the blossoms pinched off.
New plants have a limited amount of energy.
If blossoms remain on the plants, the energy that should go to runner development is used to mature fruit instead. For a good strawberry plant population, and a good strawberry crop next year, early runner development is necessary, so runners take root early in the season. Early developing runners will produce the most strawberries next spring. Newly planted everbearing plants should also have the fruits removed for the first 4 to 6 weeks after planting so plants develop a strong root system. KSU, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.