Small Town Pride Dream Big

It's Strawberry Days around here and that means parades, carnival, games, relays, food and, of course, strawberries and cream (my mouth is watering)(I've got both

those foods in my fridge. I'll be right back).

*wipes mouth*

Mr. Smiles wanted to be in the children's parade (it was cold!), Dimples was almost in the 4th grade relay but wasn't so she helped me hand out ribbons to the 1st place runners, Hubby and Teen Girl sold programs at the rodeo and a few of us traipsed through the carnival (I honestly don't enjoy the carnival but the youngest didn't remember EVER going so we walked through).

We felt the community spirit!

The Hopeful Gardener-Strawberries

I planted Albion strawberries at the beginning of April. Albion produces in spring, taper off then come on again August thru October.

In my 3'x5' row, I stagger-planted the strawberries. I use a drip system that I bought @ Wal-Mart. The whole set-up came in one box. I planted with the roots covered and only the crown showed above ground. I dug the hole deep enough so the roots can stretch down.

Runners show a lack of water and need to be removed to allow more berries to produce. Berries should be picked 3-4 times a week.

I use black plastic around the plants; it keeps the plants warm and weed free. I plant the strawberries, put a drip system near the plants then lay the plastic down. I put dirt around the edges of the plastic.

When the leaves turn yellow, use a trimmer to cut the plants down.