I have no idea what my varieties are Roy as I have received lots in the past from friends, neighbours and relatives, either runners from their own stock, or when they have been offered cheap when people are out and about. Some are HUGE strawbs, some small but as sweet as sugar, but they are all mixed up I'm afraid.
I grow mine directly in the allotment in a sunny area. I plant slightly proud of the soil so the crown isn't covered with soil as it will rot quite quickly. I would put them in now. Old Jack is waiting for some from Dobies and when he called them last week they told him they would be posted at the end of November so there is still plenty of time to get them in. In the spring, as they start to flower, I use straw or shredded paper around the plants to keep the fruit proud of the soil and also to reflect the sunlight to speed up the ripening. I also have to net mine very carefully as the birdies like them more than my redcurrants. I use large half hoops which I peg netting over. I also use slug bait - preferably bird/wildlife friendly as the slimy creatures love them as much as the birds. Most things I am prepared to share with nature, but my number one girl will cut off her right arm for a bowl full of my strawbs, still warm from the plot, so I don't share the strawbs with anyone! ;D
You can do it Roy, after all, you grow bananas!!
