In the next issue we will give a review of the 2000 season. Sprayers and irrigation equipment should be winterized soon. Temperatures about 28 F or below can cause significant damage to unprotected equipment. Drain all water from lines, and follow manufacturer s recommendations on winterizing pumps. Any straw is suitable as long as it is heavy enough to resist blowing off in the wind and free of troublesome weeds.
Some growers grow their own rye crop for mulch.
When harvested in the soft dough stage it contains very little seed capable of germination. A good rule of thumb is that it takes 1.5 to 2 tons of straw per acre of strawberries. This usually occurs in mid to late December. Once these freezes occur strawberry plants will be completely dormant. It is important not to mulch too early because the plants need the exposure to cold and shortening daylength to properly harden off for winter.