Strawberries preparing

Mine went wild last year so I have a patch some 6m x 3m a mix of previous and new shoots. To try out I have strimmed them down and composted the loose stuff (by raking it all out). So I'm thinking feeding now so perhaps a sprinkling of Chicken pellets and Growmore about now ready for growth? Wary of compost as it will encourage slugs. Ideas welcome.

 

I would do one or the other not both. I would also wait until I could see new growth on the plants; say end of March, unless you get really mild weather then mid March.

 

Great thanks. Research suggests: Use chicken pellets in early spring for nitrogen and soil improvement, then apply potassium fertiliser 4 weeks later to encourage fruiting. Avoid fresh manure, and always use well-rotted or dried pellets to prevent plant damage. For organic gardening, Fish, Blood and Bone (FBB) is often considered a better all-around choice due to its balanced nutrient profile and high potash content. So I must get some BF&B for later. Must rake them again to loosen the soil.

 

I wouldn't use FBB if you have either dogs or foxes around - they love it.

 

Agree with @NigelJ , its rather early for adding any ferts unless you can see lots of fresh growth on your strawbs, ours are still very much dormant.

Also, adding anything now will likely be washed away by all the rains.

FB&B is generally considered a slow acting fert used at planting time, you might be better using a Tomato feed once the flower buds are forming.

 

At this point, do nothing.

I would suggest to slow down with the whole fertiliser (of any kind) buying or applying...

If it ain't broke...