Diamante strawberries are a popular choice for home gardeners and commercial growers due to their consistent production and desirable fruit qualities. These plants offer a rewarding experience, yielding sweet, firm berries over an extended season. Their adaptability to various growing conditions makes them a favored variety for those seeking a steady supply of fresh strawberries.
Understanding Diamante Strawberries
Diamante strawberries are classified as a day-neutral variety, meaning they produce fruit continuously throughout the growing season, independent of day length, as long as temperatures are moderate. This characteristic distinguishes them from June-bearing varieties, which yield a single, concentrated harvest.
The berries typically grow large, often weighing around 32 grams, and possess a conical, elongated shape with a shiny, bright scarlet color. Their flesh is firm and light red, accumulating a significant amount of sugar, contributing to an excellent sweet flavor. This firmness also makes them well-suited for transportation and gives them a good shelf life. The Diamante variety originated from the California Horticultural Institute, developed from a controlled cross in 1991.
Cultivating Diamante Strawberries
Optimal cultivation of Diamante strawberries begins with selecting a site that receives full sun, ideally at least 6-8 hours daily, to promote robust fruiting. These plants thrive in well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. An ideal soil pH for strawberries, including Diamante, ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. Incorporating well-aged compost or manure into the top 6 inches of soil before planting significantly improves soil quality and provides initial nutrients.
Consistent moisture is important for Diamante strawberries, as their root system is relatively shallow. Watering should be done regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening is preferable, avoiding overhead irrigation that can encourage fungal diseases. For planting, space individual plants about 12 to 18 inches apart, especially if allowing runners to fill in the space. If using a hill system where runners are removed, plants can be placed closer.
Day-neutral varieties like Diamante have ongoing nutrient demands due to their continuous fruiting. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK, can be applied before planting, and then every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, or as a foliar spray every two weeks. Avoid excessive nitrogen application once fruiting begins, as this can lead to softer berries. Diamante strawberries exhibit good resistance to common diseases like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and some root diseases, but prevention remains important. Good cultural practices, such as ensuring proper air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and removing plant debris, help minimize the risk of issues like gray mold.
Harvesting and Enjoying Diamante Strawberries
Harvesting Diamante strawberries ensures optimal flavor and quality. Berries are ready for picking when they are fully colored bright red. Since strawberries do not ripen further after being picked, harvest them at their peak ripeness. Harvest during the cool morning hours when berries are firm. To avoid damaging the fruit, gently grasp the stem above the berry and snap it off, leaving about 2.5 cm attached.
A single Diamante strawberry plant can produce a significant yield, with day-neutral varieties potentially yielding between 0.75 to 1.25 pounds per plant in a season. Their inherent firmness contributes to excellent post-harvest handling and an extended shelf life compared to softer varieties. This characteristic makes them suitable for various uses beyond fresh eating, such as freezing or making preserves.
Why Choose Diamante Strawberries?
Choosing Diamante strawberries offers several distinct advantages. Their day-neutral nature ensures a consistent harvest from spring through the first frost, providing a steady supply of fresh fruit. They are also adaptable to various growing methods, including containers and raised beds, making them suitable for diverse gardening setups.