Table 2 provides a guide to quantities and the frequency of fertiliser applications for Perth and the south-west. Nitrogen applications should be heaviest in autumn to encourage the production of large crowns, and lowest in spring as nitrogen has adverse effects on fruit quality. Avoid heavy nitrogen applications just before or during the heavy fruiting period. Strawberry growers on heavier soils in the south west may prefer to use blood and bone before planting. Apply normal potash dressings, but reduce or eliminate nitrogen and phosphorus dressings.
Organic matter improves most soils.
On heavier soils it should not be required. Cutting off plants Runners that develop during cropping should be removed as soon as they appear. Runner removal is generally not considered to be worthwhile late in the season. If an autumn crop is desired, cut bushes to within 2 cm of the crowns between March and May in Perth and between May and July in the south and remove all old leaves. Top removal can be aided by slashers, modified lawn mowers, hedge clippers or sharp knives.