Interesting Facts About a Chandler Strawberry Plant

Characteristics

• Chandler strawberry plants produce conically-shaped, long wedged fruits that vary in size. At maturity, the fruits are red, firm, juicy, sweet and tangy. The number of berries per plant varies depending its size and overall health of the roots and stems. Chandler strawberries are tasty when eaten fresh right off the vine but they freeze well, too. Chandler strawberry plants are patented by the United States government; #5262.

Where and When They Grow

• Chandler strawberry plants thrive in southern California, a popular area for winter commercial production. They grow well in southern states and, during the spring, in the Midwest and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. East coast states such as North Carolina and South Carolina are also heavy strawberry producers. Considered a "short day" type of cultivar, it produces buds when days contain fewer than 14 hours of sunlight or when temperatures are below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, Chandler strawberry plants drop their fruits in late May or early June. In Florida, California or areas with similar climates, fruit harvest begins in March, lasting several weeks.

Plant Growth

• Chandler Strawberry plants require full sunlight, sufficient water and well-drained soil; too much water can cause roots to rot. Plant in the early spring but after danger of frost, in single rows about 8 to 14 inches apart or in double rows that are 1 to 2 feet apart. Healthy, mature plants have shallow roots and stems that grow to about 8 inches tall. Strawberry plants can also grow from seed or clippings; plant them in small containers with fresh soil.

Plant Diseases, Insects and Weeds

• Like all strawberry cultivars, Chandler plants are susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, fungus and in some cases, gray mold. The anthracnose fungus is a problem for all strawberry plants when the weather is warm and humid; particularly for carryover Chandler cultivars. Pesticides are recommended to control insects such as spider mites, spittlebugs, root weevils and aphids. Weed control is also necessary to keep the growing strawberry plants from choking. Removing dead leaves from plants will help control insects and fungal diseases.