The Wild Strawberry Growbar

Wild strawberries are smaller and sweeter than their more commercial cousins and have a deliciously fragrant flavour. No need for sugar or cream!

Start by unwrapping your Growbar and place it with the brown protective paper facing upwards, into a container with plenty of space to allow it to expand; a takeaway food tray is ideal. Gently pour half a litre of water into the tray and position indoors on a warm, bright sunny windowsill. The seeds will need to be a cosy 18°-22° to germinate.

Water regularly and ensure the Growbar is perfectly moist, it should remain the colour of a rich dark ginger cake.

When the seedlings have produced 4-8 leaves you may then gently separate them, being careful to not damage the delicate roots, plant them in individual pots or a sunny weed-free spot in the garden. Plants grown in the ground with plenty of space and sunlight will fruit most impressively though it is possible to grow the seedlings in containers or pots on the balcony or patio. Water regularly and feed from time to time.

Not only is the alpine strawberry especially sweet-tasting, it also benefits from being less visible to birds than commoner varieties, so you’ll not have to share your crop with feathered friends.

Dependent on weather conditions and when the seeds were started, your strawberries will begin to form from midsummer. Water the soil regularly as the fruits swell and ripen and provide well-rotted manure to encourage abundant fruit. They’re delicious plucked straight from the stems but a bumper crop can be cooked into a splendidly simple jam.