Anka Çilek Fidesi
Plant Guide

Frigo, Fresh and Plug Plants: What Are the Differences and Which One Is Right for You?

6 min read · Anka Çilek Fidesi

The foundation of success in strawberry production begins with the right plant. Even for the same variety, the way the plant is prepared directly determines its establishment rate, the timing of the first harvest and the yield you will obtain throughout the season. At Anka Çilek Fidesi, we offer our growers three fundamental plant forms: Frigo, Fresh and Plug. Each of these three options serves a different production model, a different climate and a different harvest plan. In this guide, we clarify the differences between them and explain which one you should prefer in each situation.

Frigo Plant: Master of Timing

The frigo plant is a bare-rooted plant that is stored under controlled conditions in cold storage after being lifted. Its greatest advantage is flexibility in planting time. The plant is essentially dormant, and you can move it to the field whenever you see fit. This feature provides great freedom for growers who want to plan their planting calendar according to the market and weather conditions.

  • Because it is bare-rooted, it is economical to transport and store.
  • Having been kept in cold storage, the plant emerges quickly and evenly after planting.
  • It is ideal for late planting and programmed harvest plans.

The frigo plant is preferred especially by growers working on large areas who want to spread their labour across specific periods. A properly stored frigo plant relieves you of the pressure of the season.

Fresh Plant: The Power of Vitality

The fresh plant is a live-rooted plant that goes straight to planting without waiting, as soon as it is lifted from the field. The freshness and vitality in its roots ensure rapid establishment under suitable conditions. The short interval between lifting and planting helps the plant preserve its energy.

The fresh plant is a strong option for growers whose planting time is set and whose field and work plan are ready. When planted in the right season, it produces a well-rooted and vigorous plant development. However, because it needs to meet the soil within a short time after lifting, logistics and timing planning become important.

Plug Plant: Shock-Free Planting and High Establishment

The plug plant is a plant rooted within its own plug. Because the root ball is not disturbed during planting, the plant experiences almost no shock. This makes the plug plant the form with the highest establishment rate. Since the soil around the roots is preserved, the plant adapts to its new environment as if it had never been moved at all.

  • Because root shock is minimised, the establishment rate is high.
  • It delivers safer results under difficult planting conditions and in hot periods.
  • By offering early and balanced development, it lets you begin the season strong.

Which Plant Should You Choose and When?

The right choice depends on your climate, your planting calendar and the harvest period you are aiming for. If you want to keep your planting time flexible and schedule your labour, the frigo plant stands out. If your planting plan is clear and your timing is ready, the live-rooted fresh plant is preferred for its vigorous development. If you want to maximise the establishment rate, reduce risk and make a shock-free start, the plug plant is the safest way.

At Anka Çilek Fidesi, we produce all three forms with certified, healthy varieties that have elite genetics. To determine together which plant is most suitable for your operation and to begin a productive season with confidence, get in touch with the Anka expert team.

Plan this season with Anka

Contact us for a plant programme suited to your region and production model.

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