Quinault Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa)

The Quinault Strawberry is a popular everbearing variety, cherished for its ability to produce juicy, flavorful berries throughout the growing season. Known for its large, sweet fruit, this strawberry variety thrives in home gardens, containers, or hanging baskets, making it a versatile choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

With its bright green foliage and charming white blossoms, Quinault Strawberry plants are as ornamental as they are productive.

Key Features

• Type: Everbearing (produces fruit from spring through fall).
• Fruit: Large, red, and exceptionally sweet.
• Size: Grows 8–10 inches tall with a spread of up to 18 inches.
• Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 4–8.

Care Instructions

Light: Quinault Strawberries thrive in full sun, needing at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade can reduce fruit production.

Soil: These plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter ensures optimal growth and berry quality.

Watering: Consistent moisture is key. Water deeply and regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and prevents weeds.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) before planting and again mid-season to encourage continuous flowering and fruiting.

Pruning & Maintenance: Remove runners if you want the plant to focus on fruit production. At the end of the season, cut back foliage to about 2 inches to prepare the plant for winter.

Best Companion Plants for Quinault Strawberries

Pair Quinault Strawberries with these plants to boost growth, deter pests, and improve fruit quality:

• Borage: Attracts pollinators and deters pests like aphids.
• Garlic: Naturally repels slugs and other harmful insects.
• Lettuce: Provides ground cover and helps retain soil moisture.
• Thyme: A fragrant herb that deters pests and complements strawberries as an edging plant.
• Spinach: Shares similar soil and light requirements, providing added moisture retention.

Avoid planting strawberries near cabbage, tomatoes, or peppers as they can compete for nutrients and increase disease risks.

Propagation Tips

Quinault Strawberries propagate easily via runners or by dividing mature plants. For best results:

• Choose healthy runners with well-developed roots.
• Plant them in nutrient-rich soil in late summer or early fall.
• Keep them well-watered and protected during the establishment phase.

Common Issues

Pests:

• Slugs and Snails: Use organic slug bait or set up barriers to keep these pests at bay.
• Aphids: Wash them off with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap.

Diseases:

• Gray Mold: Improve air circulation and avoid watering the foliage.
• Powdery Mildew: Ensure the plants are not overcrowded and avoid overwatering.

Similar Strawberry Varieties to Consider

If you love Quinault Strawberries, you might also enjoy these:

• Ozark Beauty: Another everbearing variety with slightly smaller, sweet berries.
• Albion: A day-neutral variety known for its large, firm fruit and disease resistance.
• Seascape: Produces consistently large, flavorful fruit and thrives in a variety of climates.
• Tristar: Compact and easy to grow, with sweet fruit perfect for fresh eating.
• Honeoye: A June-bearing variety offering an early harvest and excellent for freezing.

Harvesting Tips

Quinault Strawberries are ready to harvest when they are fully red and firm to the touch. Gently twist the berry to remove it without damaging the plant. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruit.

Why Choose Quinault Strawberries?

With their ability to produce multiple harvests in a single growing season, Quinault Strawberries are a gardener’s dream. They’re perfect for snacking fresh, adding to desserts, or making jams and preserves. Their adaptability to different garden spaces and reliable fruiting make them an excellent addition to any edible garden.