How to Trim Strawberry Leaves

Strawberry leaf pruning needs to be determined based on the growth stage and leaf status of the plant, mainly divided into pruning during the growth period, pruning during the flowering and fruiting period, pruning of diseased leaves, pruning of old leaves, and pruning during the dormant period.

1. Pruning during Growth Period

Strawberry seedlings should retain 5-6 healthy new leaves during their growth period, and cut off overly dense small leaves. Remove the yellowed old leaves at the base in a timely manner after unfolding the new leaves to promote ventilation and light transmission. When pruning, cut diagonally 1 centimeter from the base of the petiole to avoid damaging the roots and stems. Spray mancozeb after trimming to prevent wound infection.

2. Pruning during flowering and fruiting period

During the budding period, keep 4-5 functional leaves around the central flower branch, and cut overlapping leaves sparsely to ensure light exposure. During the period of fruit enlargement, remove the leaves that obstruct the fruit, but retain sufficient photosynthetic area. After pruning, apply potassium dihydrogen phosphate to supplement nutrition, and avoid operating during the high temperature period at noon.

III. Pruning of diseased leaves

If powdery mildew leaves are found, they should be immediately pruned along the stem, and anthracnose diseased leaves need to be pruned within a 1cm range. The diseased leaves need to be sealed in plastic bags, and the pruning tools should be disinfected with 75% alcohol. Cooperate with the spraying of azoxystrobin or benzoxazole for whole plant protection.

Fourth, Pruning of Old Leaves

In autumn, retain 3-4 new leaves in the middle of the plant and remove the outer layer of aged red leaves. The lignification of old leaf petioles requires sharp pruning and pruning, followed by the application of plant ash for preservation. The retained leaves should be distributed in an umbrella shape to provide space for the growth of new creeping stems.

V. Pruning during dormancy period

In winter, retain 3 overwintering leaves to maintain basic photosynthesis and remove all diseased leaves. After pruning in northern regions, it is necessary to cover with plastic film to prevent freezing, while in southern regions, more leaves can be preserved. Trim the new leaves before they sprout in spring, and water them with alginate to promote recovery. Strawberry pruning throughout the year should be coordinated with water and fertilizer management, and watering should be avoided within 3 days after pruning to prevent wound decay. During the growth period, check the condition of the leaves every 10-15 days and trim them in stages using disinfectant scissors. Retain the leaves based on the visible roots and stems of the plant, as excessive pruning can affect photosynthetic accumulation. Pay attention to preserving sufficient functional leaves during the flowering and fruiting period, and update the leaf group in a timely manner after fruit harvesting. Potted strawberries require more precise pruning to maintain even leaf distribution, which is beneficial for fruit coloring.