Strawberry Plants

Question

We started a new strawberry bed last year. When should we remove the straw we covered the bed with last fall? We put a pretty good cover of straw on last fall after the ground froze. Now we’re not sure when to remove it. Thanks. We live in SW Iowa – zone 5.

Answer 1

Once you begin to see growth on the plants in spring, you can clear away the mulch. However, I would keep it nearby just in case freezing temps are expected so you can recover them if needed.