Strawberry Royal Sovereign: A Timeless Delight for Your Garden

Fragaria × ananassa

Royal Sovereign Strawberry

The Royal Sovereign strawberry is a classic variety that gardeners and fruit enthusiasts cherish. Renowned for its exceptional strawberry flavour and historical significance, this plant has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, this guide will show you why the Royal Sovereign deserves a special place in your garden.

This article delves into the unique qualities of the Royal Sovereign strawberry, its growing requirements, and the joy of harvesting its delicious fruits. Read on to discover how to cultivate this iconic variety and enjoy the unparalleled taste of homegrown strawberries.

What Makes the Royal Sovereign Strawberry Special?

The Royal Sovereign strawberry is a legendary variety bred in 1892. It was the most widely grown strawberry in the UK for decades, celebrated for its unparalleled fruit quality and flavour. Between 1920 and 1960, this variety became a household favourite, earning a loyal following among knowledgeable gardeners.

One of the key features of Royal Sovereign strawberries is their sweet and rich flavour. Unlike modern varieties bred for commercial resilience, this strawberry focuses on taste, making it ideal for those who value quality over quantity. Its bright red fruits are smaller than contemporary hybrids but pack a punch in flavour.

1. Exceptional Flavour

The Royal Sovereign strawberry is synonymous with high-quality flavour. If you love sweet, juicy fruits, this variety is a must-have. It’s perfect for fresh eating, adding to desserts, or making preserves.

2. A Piece of Gardening History

You’re preserving a piece of horticultural history by planting Royal Sovereign strawberry plants. This variety is a testament to traditional breeding methods prioritising taste and quality.

3. Versatile Growing Options

Whether you prefer garden beds, pots, or hanging baskets, Royal Sovereign strawberries adapt well to various growing conditions. They’re easy to grow and maintain, making them ideal for gardeners of all experience levels.

What Growing Conditions Do Royal Sovereign Strawberries Need?

Royal Sovereign strawberries thrive in free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Adding well-rotted compost or manure to your planting area will ensure optimal growth. They require a sunny position to produce the best fruit quality.

These plants are semi-evergreen, meaning they retain some foliage throughout the winter. However, they need protection from frost during colder months for best results. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

How to Plant Royal Sovereign Strawberry Plants

Plant Royal Sovereign strawberry plants in early spring or late autumn. Please ensure each plant is spaced at least 45cm apart, with rows leaving a gap of 75cm. This spacing allows the plants to develop a strong root system and ensures proper airflow.

When planting, ensure the crown is level with the soil. Avoid burying the crown, as this can lead to rot. Water the plants thoroughly after planting to help them establish quickly.

Tips for Maintaining Royal Sovereign Strawberries

1. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants early in the day to prevent fungal issues.
2. Fertilising: A balanced fertiliser encourages healthy growth and fruiting. Avoid over-fertilising, as it can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of fruit.
3. Mulching: Apply mulch around each plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and protect fruits from touching the soil.
4. Pruning: Remove old or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.

When to Harvest Royal Sovereign Strawberries

Royal Sovereign strawberries are typically ready to pick from mid-June onwards. Frequent picking ensures that the plants continue producing high-quality fruits throughout the season.

To harvest, gently hold the fruit and twist it off the plant. Avoid pulling the fruit too hard, as this can damage the plant. For the best flavour, pick the fruits when they’re fully ripe and bright red.

Can You Grow Royal Sovereign in Containers?

Yes! Royal Sovereign strawberries are well-suited to container gardening. Choose a pot with good drainage holes and fill it with free-draining compost. Ensure the pot is placed in a sunny spot to maximise fruiting.

When planting in pots, avoid overcrowding. Leave enough space around each plant for proper airflow. Regular watering is crucial for container-grown strawberries, as pots dry out more quickly than garden beds.

How to Propagate Royal Sovereign Strawberry Plants

Royal Sovereign strawberries can be propagated using strawberry runners. During the growing season, the plants produce runners that develop into new plants. To propagate, pin the runner into the soil and wait for it to establish roots. Once rooted, cut the runner from the parent plant and transplant it to its new location.

Propagating from runners ensures you have a continuous supply of Royal Sovereign strawberry plants. It’s an economical and rewarding way to expand your strawberry patch.

Common Pests and Diseases Affecting Royal Sovereign

Although ‘Royal Sovereign’ strawberries are known for their hardiness and flavour, they’re not entirely immune to garden pests and diseases. With vigilance and simple strategies, you can keep your plants healthy and productive throughout the season. Here are some of the most common problems to watch out for:

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are among the most common culprits in UK gardens, especially during damp weather. They’ll happily munch their way through leaves and fruit, leaving telltale holes and slimy trails behind. Scatter organic slug pellets around your plants to deter them without harming pets or wildlife. These pellets are made with iron phosphate, which is safe for the environment but effective against slugs and snails. You can also try placing barriers such as crushed eggshells or copper tape around the base of plants for added protection.

Aphids

Aphids, including greenfly and blackfly, often gather on the soft growing tips of strawberry plants, sucking sap and weakening the plant. They can also transmit viruses. Inspect your plants regularly, especially during warm, dry spells. At the first sign of infestation, spray with insecticidal soap or a homemade solution of diluted washing-up liquid. These treatments are gentle on plants but effective against soft-bodied insects. Encourage aphid predators like ladybirds and lacewings by planting pollinator-friendly flowers nearby for a more natural approach.

Birds

Birds are especially fond of ripe strawberries and can strip plants of fruit just as they reach their peak. Cover your strawberry bed with fine mesh or bird netting to protect your crop. Choose a mesh size small enough to prevent birds from accessing the fruit but large enough to allow pollinators through. Consider creating a simple frame or tunnel system to hold the netting in place for easy harvesting.

Fungal Diseases

Strawberries are susceptible to several fungal issues, especially in warm, humid or damp conditions. Grey mould (Botrytis) and powdery mildew are common problems affecting foliage and fruit. To prevent these diseases, avoid overcrowding your plants and ensure good airflow by spacing them well. Water should be at the base of the plant rather than overhead, and any dead or infected leaves should always be removed to stop the spread. A layer of straw mulch beneath the plants can also reduce contact between fruit and damp soil, which helps minimise rot.

Why Buy Royal Sovereign Strawberry Plants?

When you buy Royal Sovereign strawberry plants, you’re investing in a variety with a proven quality and flavour track record. These plants are easy to grow, rewarding, and perfect for gardeners who value heritage varieties.

Choose healthy, bare-root plants from reputable nurseries to ensure the best start for your strawberry patch. Look for plants with strong root systems and vibrant foliage to guarantee success.

Royal Sovereign has long been one of my favourite strawberry varieties — and for good reason. There’s just something about its rich, old-fashioned flavour that modern supermarket strawberries can’t touch. I still remember the first time I tasted one from the plant: sweet, juicy, and bursting with a depth of flavour that took me right back to childhood summers. It may not produce the biggest berries, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in taste. I grow it in raised beds and a few terracotta pots near the patio, so I can easily sneak a few warm, sun-ripened fruits on my way past. This heritage variety is a must if you love strawberries for their flavour, not just their looks. It’s a joy to grow, share, and a little piece of gardening history worth keeping alive.

Key Points to Remember:

• Royal Sovereign strawberries are a heritage variety bred in 1892, renowned for their exceptional flavour
• These plants are easy to grow and adapt well to various growing conditions, including pots and raised beds
• Ensure well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular maintenance for optimal growth
• Harvest fruits from mid-June, picking them when fully ripe for the best flavour
• Propagate new plants using runners to expand your strawberry patch
• Watch for pests and diseases, and take preventative measures to keep your plants healthy

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Read about Strawberry Rendezvous here

Q: What’s the deal with Royal Sovereign?

A: Royal Sovereign is a popular variety known for its sweet flavour and juicy texture. It’s a favourite among gardeners and fruit lovers alike!

Q: How do I grow Royal Sovereign?

A: Growing Strawberry Royal Sovereign is relatively straightforward! Just ensure you plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. They appreciate a bit of space, so give them room to spread out!

Q: When is the best time to plant Royal Sovereign?

A: The ideal time to plant these strawberries is in early spring. This way, they’ll have the entire summer to grow and produce delicious fruit!

Q: How often do I need to water Strawberry Royal Sovereign?

A: Regularly water your Strawberry Royal Sovereign plants, especially during dry spells. Aim for about an inch of water per week, but be sure the soil doesn’t become too soggy!

Q: Are Strawberry Royal Sovereign plants resistant to pests?

A: While they’re generally quite hardy, Royal Sovereign can occasionally face challenges from pests like aphids and slugs. Keep an eye on them and consider using organic pest control methods if necessary.

Q: How long until I can harvest my Strawberry Royal Sovereign?

A: You can start harvesting strawberries about 4 to 6 weeks after flowering. When they turn a bright red, they’re ready to be picked!

Q: Can I grow Strawberry Royal Sovereign in pots?

A: Absolutely! Strawberry Royal Sovereign can thrive in pots; ensure they have good drainage and are placed in a sunny spot. They make excellent container plants! For best results, use a soil-based compost such as John Innes No.2, which provides the nutrients and structure strawberries need to grow well in pots.

Q: What’s the best way to store Strawberry Royal Sovereign?

A: To keep your strawberries fresh, store them in the fridge in a breathable container. Avoid washing them until you’re ready to eat, as moisture can lead to spoilage.

Q: Are Royal Sovereign good for baking?

A: Oh! Their sweet and juicy flavour makes Strawberry Royal Sovereign perfect for pies, cakes, and jams. You can’t go wrong with these tasty berries in your recipes!

Q: Do Strawberry Royal Sovereign plants need fertiliser?

A: They benefit from a balanced fertiliser, especially during the growing season. Just don’t overdo it—follow the instructions on the label for the best results.