These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
Origin: 'Earliglow' is an early-season June-bearing strawberry cultivar developed at the **Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station** and released in **1963**. It is the result of a cross between 'Midland' and 'Pocahontas'. It is prized for its very early ripening, excellent flavor, and good disease resistance.
Patent Status: 'Earliglow' Strawberry is not patented. As a cultivar introduced in 1963, any potential patent protection has long since expired. Therefore, there are no restrictions on its asexual reproduction, propagation, or sale based on patent law.
Berry Production: Produces medium to large-sized, bright red, wedge-shaped berries with a glossy finish and outstanding flavor that is considered one of the best among early varieties. It is a productive June-bearing type, yielding a concentrated crop over a period of about 2-3 weeks. The berries are relatively firm for an early variety.
Ripening Time: 'Earliglow' is a **very early-season** June-bearing strawberry, typically the first to ripen in the spring, usually **1-2 weeks before other early varieties** in many regions of the United States. The exact timing depends on the local climate and weather conditions.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Earliglow' plants are moderately vigorous and produce a moderate number of runners. They typically grow to be about 6-8 inches tall with a spread of 12-18 inches. The foliage is a healthy medium green.
Flowers: Features typical white strawberry flowers with yellow centers in the spring. It is self-pollinating.
Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **4 through 8**, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates. It is known for its good winter hardiness.
Pollination: 'Earliglow' is self-pollinating and does not require another strawberry variety nearby to set fruit. However, having other June-bearing varieties nearby can extend the overall harvest season.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal fruit production (at least 6-8 hours per day).
Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5). Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruit development. Avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing: Benefits from appropriate fertilization in early spring and again after the harvest is complete.
Planting: Space plants about 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart. Ensure the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.
Pruning: Remove old or diseased leaves. Runner production can be managed depending on whether you want to propagate new plants or maintain the vigor of the mother plants for fruit production. Remove blossoms in the first year to encourage stronger plant establishment.
Uses: The berries are excellent for:
Fresh eating due to their exceptional early flavor.
Freezing well for later use.
Making jams, jellies, and preserves.
Baking and desserts.
Extending the early strawberry season for home gardeners and commercial growers.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds. Gardeners may need to protect the fruit from birds to ensure a good harvest.
Ornamental Value: The foliage can provide some ground cover, and the red berries are visually appealing.
Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Earliglow' is known for its good resistance to several common strawberry diseases, including Verticillium wilt and red stele. It also exhibits some resistance to leaf scorch. However, monitoring for other potential pests and diseases is still recommended.
