Strawberry 'Merlan' (Fragaria x ananassa) – Mid-Season Fruiting Plant (12 x 10.5cm Pots)

Merlan strawberry plants bring a taste of summer to the garden, with large, bright red, conical fruits that are sweet, firm and generously produced. Merlan is a mid-season variety of garden strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa), well suited to the UK climate and a popular choice for gardeners of all experience levels.

You receive 12 strawberry plants, each in its own 10.5cm pot. They are established, healthy plants that can go straight into the ground, a raised bed, a grow bag, a container or a hanging basket. Strawberries are self fertile, so a single plant will crop, but bees and other pollinating insects visit the flowers and help the fruit to form well.

Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot for the best crop, although they will fruit in partial shade. Space the plants 30-45cm apart to allow room for the runners, and plant at soil level without burying the crown, which can cause rotting. Mulch with straw to keep the fruit clean and hold moisture. Water regularly, especially while fruiting, but avoid waterlogging, and give a high-potassium liquid feed once flowering begins. Remove runners if you want the plant to put its energy into fruit.

Strawberries are fully hardy across Britain. Plants in pots and baskets appreciate a little protection round the roots in a hard winter. As these are living plants, slight variation in size and appearance may occur naturally.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Merlan Strawberry, Garden Strawberry
• Botanical Name: Fragaria x ananassa
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Approx. 20-30cm tall and 30-45cm wide (variety dependent)
• Growth Habit: Low-growing and clump-forming, with spreading runners
• Perfect For: Borders, raised beds, containers, grow bags, hanging baskets and kitchen gardens
• Flowering Time: Late spring to early summer
• Planting Position: Full sun to partial shade (best fruiting in full sun)
• Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic soil
• Hardiness: Fully hardy
• Seasonal Interest: Fruit from June to July, variety dependent
• Type: Mid-season strawberry