Strawberry Fresca - 5 Seeds

Strawberry ‘Fresca’ is a compact, day-neutral (everbearing) variety that produces sweet, juicy, deep red berries throughout the growing season. Unlike traditional varieties, ‘Fresca’ is grown from seed and is perfect for containers, hanging baskets, or small garden beds. Its small size and continuous fruiting make it ideal for urban gardens and patio growing.

Type Everbearing (produces fruit throughout the season)

Lifespan Perennial in most parts of South Africa

Growing Zones Suitable for most regions; protect from frost in very cold areas

Fruit Size Small to medium berries with excellent flavour

How to Grow Strawberry ‘Fresca’

Sowing (From Seed)

Best Time to Sow Late winter to early spring (July–September) indoors or in a protected area.

Germination Temperature 18–24°C

Germination Time 14–28 days

Sowing Depth Lightly press seeds onto surface of moist soil – do not cover, as seeds need light to germinate.

Transplanting Once seedlings have 3–4 true leaves, transplant to final containers or beds.

Growing in Containers

Container Size Use pots at least 20–25 cm deep with good drainage.

Spacing Plant 20–25 cm apart.

Soil Use rich, well-draining potting mix with compost added.

Watering Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water 2–3 times per week, more in hot weather.

Feeding Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks once plants are established.

Light Needs 6–8 hours of full sun daily.

Growing in Garden Beds

Soil Prep Loosen soil to 25–30 cm depth. Mix in compost and a handful of bone meal per plant.

Spacing Space plants 25–30 cm apart in rows 40–50 cm apart.

Mulching Apply straw or dry grass mulch to retain moisture and keep fruit clean.

Watering Water deeply 2–3 times per week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal risk.

Sunlight Full sun (6–8 hours/day).

Fertiliser Feed with a balanced organic fertiliser monthly during growing season.

Harvesting & Care

First Fruit Expect fruit 4–5 months after sowing.

Fruit Size Small to medium berries; harvest when fully red.

Harvesting Tip Pick in the morning when cool. Avoid pulling – use scissors or pinch gently.

Maintenance Remove runners unless you want to propagate. Trim old leaves after fruiting to encourage new growth.