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In
the fruit garden
Strawberries
Now is a good time to plant strawberries. However, bear in mind
that only a small crop (if any) will be harvested this summer,
and that you are really now planting for a good crop in summer
2002. Whether you are using your own runners or getting them
elsewhere (at the garden centre for instance), remember that to
avoid root diseases, plant into fresh ground which has not had
strawberries in it for at least ten years.
On your established plants, take some time to remove all the
dead leaves from last season as these harbour grey mould disease
(Botrytis). The more thoroughly this is done the less disease
you will have on your fruits.
Raspberries
Ensure that your raspberry canes are well secured to their
supports. Now that the buds are opening, they will easily be
blown by the wind, and any waving about can promote root
diseases. As raspberries cannot tolerate wet soil, make sure
that the ground is well drained and if necessary create a ridge
by placing some earth around the base of the canes. This will
allow higher rooting away front the soil underneath. Any weeds
still present should also be removed.
Apples
Your apples are now breaking bud. Ensure that all leaf litter
has been removed, as this is a primary source of disease
infection. If you have varieties that have been affected by
black spot (apple scab) in the past, then a few sprays of
fungicide between now and petal fall would be useful. Useful
chemicals include captan, dithane and systhane, or if you have
an organic garden try sulphur. Bear in mind that there should be
no need to apply any chemicals unless the weather is wet. If you
see greenfly on your trees their ignore these. Most species soon
migrate elsewhere.
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