Anka Çilek Fidesi
Starting strawberry production for the first time is as exciting as it is laden with the weight of decisions. Which variety, which seedling type, when to plant, which irrigation system? Answering these questions correctly determines whether the first season becomes a success or a disappointment. At Anka Çilek Fidesi, we do not leave the grower taking their first step alone; we are beside them along the road that stretches from seedling selection to harvest. This article is a map of that road.
Step 1: Clarify Your Goal
Every correct decision begins with a clear goal. Do you want to harvest early and catch the high-price period, or are you aiming to keep the season long and target sustained income? Will you produce in the open field or under protection? Will you sell the produce to the fresh market or to channels that require a longer shelf life? The answers to these questions directly determine the variety and seedling type you will choose.
Step 2: Choose the Right Seedling Type
Anka's three seedling types serve different production strategies:
- Frigo seedling: A cold-stored seedling with a strong root structure. It offers flexibility in planting timing and rapid, strong development; it is the choice of those wishing to carry out planned production.
- Fresh seedling: A seedling of high vitality that goes into planting fresh after lifting. It provides rapid establishment in the right period.
- Plug seedling: A seedling that comes with the soil around its roots, with the least transplant shock. It gives the advantage of a rapid start especially in early and protected production.
Step 3: The Variety Decision
Variety selection is the most strategic decision of the first season. Anka's portfolio is divided into two basic day groups:
Short-Day Varieties
Short-day varieties such as Palmeritas, Leticia, Felicity, Festival, Rubygem, Florida Beauty, Kallisti and Cleopatra provide an intense and early harvest in a specific period. They are ideal for growers targeting the high-price window.
Day-Neutral Varieties
Day-neutral varieties such as Albion, Monterey, San Andreas, Portola and Cabrillo offer a more spread-out harvest throughout the season, independent of day length. They are suitable for growers seeking continuity and sustained income. The right variety is the one that matches your region's climate and your market goal; in this decision, Anka's experience is a decisive guide.
Step 4: Soil, Irrigation and Planting
Soil preparation must be completed before the seedling arrives. Soil analysis, the raised bed system, the laying of the drip irrigation line and the mulch cover are steps that must be in place before planting. Planting density and depth are adjusted according to variety and seedling type, so that the crown stays at the correct level. The wrong planting depth lowers the establishment of even the healthiest seedling.
Step 5: Care and Harvest
The establishment period after planting is the most sensitive phase of the season. During this period, regular irrigation, balanced fertilisation and close observation build a strong plant crown. In the following weeks, the fertilisation programme is adapted to the flowering and fruiting periods; the balance of potassium and calcium determines fruit quality. During the harvest period, regular picking preserves both the quality of the produce and the yield of the plant.
Anka Consultancy: You Are Not Alone in the First Season
The greatest advantage of the first season is beginning with the support of an experienced grower. Anka Çilek Fidesi, with its production heritage dating back to 1993 and its healthy, certified seedling production, is not merely a seedling seller but a partner who guides you on your production journey. From variety selection to planting planning, from the care programme to harvest timing, you can access the knowledge of our expert team at every stage.
Take the First Step Correctly
In strawberry production, a good start means winning half the season. Contact Anka Çilek Fidesi to build your first season on solid foundations and correct decisions. On the road that stretches from seedling selection to harvest, we are ready to share our experience with you.
