MUSK STRAWBERRY SEEDS

Fragaria moschata

Select cultivars of this very unusual and fragrant strawberry were popular throughout Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, but are rarely offered today outside of specialty markets. Frequently used to make liqueur and wine, Musk Strawberries are much more assertive in fragrance and flavor and darker in color than other wild strawberries. The plants are less susceptible to diseases than other strawberries. This species may be dioecious, requiring multiple plants to produce fruits. Grow out each and every germinated seedling and plant in a single location for best fruit production.

Musk Strawberries prefer rich soil in sun or part shade. They are deer-resistant and will thrive on the edge of a woodland. In the garden they are a nice for edging pathways or as an understory for tall Alliums.

Start seeds indoors as early as January: press seeds onto moist soil, mist; kept warm (65F-70F) and moist in bright light, seeds will germinate in a week or two, usually all at once. Transplant seedlings to individual cells when they have at least two sets of true leaves. Keep warm and in bright light until well-rooted and large enough to transplant outdoors.

Strawberry seedlings will benefit from weekly applications of very dilute organic fish and seaweed extracts. Once established, however, they require little attention aside from the occasional thinning.

Musk Strawberries will set runners. Lots of them. In a woodland or natural landscape this is no problem, but in the garden you may choose to transplant these babies to keep the bed from becoming too crowded.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.