I purchased 10 bare root strawberry plants this spring and they are growing like crazy. They are June bearing Allstars and I have been pinching both suckers and flowers to the plants to focus on root growth until next year. That said, several of them have developed multiple crowns and I am wondering if I should separate the crowns into individual plants and if so, should I do it now, or when they are dormant this winter. I have a “3-year plan” for my berry patch. Year 1, pinch all suckers and flowers, year 2 and 3 pinch suckers until after fruit is harvested. Plants older than 3 years tend to produce less so may or may not be removed. If I split the crowns, they have to be dug up so should I now view them as year 1 again and let them re-root or go ahead and let them fruit? I have Sparkler variety June bearing as well and more of those have multiple crowns but the super hot weather seems to be stressing them so I’m planning to leave the alone this year instead of splitting them (unless they can be spot while dormant.) Thanks to anyone who takes the time to help or make suggestions!
