Strawberry plants are a part of the genus Fragaria, and so are grown as perennials at US Department of Agriculture zones 5 to 8. In zones 9 and 10, strawberries are grown as cool season annuals. In all hardiness zones, strawberry crops benefit from organic mulch. Pine straw mulch is commonly utilized in growing strawberries because of its positive effects on the soil and the roots, which creates an ideal atmosphere for strawberry plants to thrive.
About Pine Straw
Pine straw mulch consists of dried pine needles and can be typically available in big round bales. It produces a thick, protective covering over strawberry plant roots, but allows heat and moisture through to the dirt beneath. Pine straw mulch is a beneficial organic sulfur material for strawberries and other acidic dirt loving plants. When applied to strawberry plants, pine straw mulch is typically applied in layers which are about 2 to 4 inches deep in the end of each growing season. When new growth begins the subsequent season, the mulch is usually worked into the soil or removed.
Soil Construction
Pine straw mulch decomposes slowly, as do other organic mulches, and this slow decomposition helps you to improve the soil structure for healthy root development of your strawberry crops. With time, the slow breakdown of pine straw releases organic matter which improves soil texture by permitting air to penetrate the soil. This atmosphere encourages beneficial microorganisms which help prevent disease. Pine needles interlock and hold together despite rain, wind and sloping soils, protecting the soil against compaction and erosion. Pine straw also remains loose, therefore it does not form a crust like other organic mulches, such as leaves or grass, tend to perform. Loose mulch allows water to penetrate so it is accessible to your own strawberry plants. The air bubbles created by the friable material also stop the dirt from getting soggy, which could damage roots.
Soil Acidity
Strawberries prefer acidic soils with a pH between 5.8 and 6.2. Pine straw mulch is great for maintaining this soil acidity in order for your plants can thrive. If your soil has a pH above 7.0, the use of pine straw mulch will help lower the pH of the surface dirt to the acidic level your strawberry plant requires.
Water and Roots
Strawberry plants need well-drained soil so as to thrive. With the accession of pine straw mulch, you make certain that dirt is saved so that there’s enough for the strawberry plant to develop, without getting the dirt becoming soggy. Pine straw insulates the dirt against evaporationthat leads to moisture loss, and it protects the roots from temperature extremes by keeping dirt warm during cool weather and cool during warm weather.
Weed Control
A thick layer of pine straw mulch around strawberry plants hinders the establishment of weeds. This reduces weeding time and reduces competition for nutrients and water. According to Texas A&M; University, pine straw mulch may also provide an effective barrier against soil-borne disorders.