This strawberry plant will be the garden must-have of 2022 – according to experts
The 'humble' flower is forecast to be the most fashionable of the year – and its benefits are abundant
2022's most sought-after plant has revealed itself in the shape of the Pink Fragaria ananassa – a 'humble' strawberry plant.
Garden experts, led by BBC Gardeners' World presenter Mark Lane, have dibbed this species as one of the most popular of the year, and it's easy to see why.
This plant is easy to grow and maintain – and may bless you with fruit too. But what more do you need to know about this garden trend-setter? Here, the experts share their wisdom.
Pink Fragaria ananassa – one of 2022's most popular plants
'The popularity of strawberries has been on the rise in recent years, and with good reason,' she says. 'They're also a great source of nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber,' Lindsey says (if you're fortunate enough to grow the red fruit on your Pink Fragaria ananassa).
'What's more, strawberries are relatively easy to grow, making them a perfect choice for gardeners of all experience levels,' Lindsey adds.
If you're wondering how to grow strawberries, the Pink Fragaria ananassa is not the most reliable choice. However, it is likely that you will still see some fruit. If not, you can still enjoy its pink flowers that make the species one of the most sought-after of the season.
'Pink Fragaria ananassa Berried Treasure has been bred specifically for growing in pots with restrained runners and semi-double pink flowers,' the presenter and garden expert adds.
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The Pink Fragaria ananassa is a perennial plant that will grow up to 50cm tall. In late spring, it will grow pink flowers and possibly edible red fruits as the year progresses. However, these strawberries are not guaranteed. Still, 'This humble strawberry has a shot at being one of the most exciting plants for 2022,' says Mark Lane.
The RHS recommends growing the plant in fertile, moist, but well-drained soil. If you decide to place it in the ground, you should plant in single or double rows and leave 11-18in (30-45cm) between plants and 30in (75cm) between rows.
Urban dwellers can also get behind the garden idea of the moment; as Mark emphasizes, you can grow the versatile bloom in a container – and enjoy its color in spaces of all sizes.
Garden expert and founder of Urban Organic Yield Lindsey Hyland similarly names the strawberry plant as one of the biggest trends of the year.
Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.
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