Summer strawberries grown by your own hand could feature on your Christmas menu this year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Stonesthrow is running Plant ‘n’ Learn masterclasses during the October school holidays, encouraging children and families to grow their own strawberries.
Hillwood Berries owner Robin Dornauf will share his experience from years of growing berries in Tasmania during each of the four masterclasses.
These masterclasses were held for the first time last year and were so popular Stonesthrow is repeating them, events and marketing coordinator Tamra Noble said.
“They proved extremely popular last season, with some [participants] coming back a second time,” Ms Noble said.
“We had quite a few emails asking if we’re running the masterclasses again this year because they had good crops last time.”
Mr Dornauf is passionate about growing berries in Tasmania and has tested different varieties in various locations throughout the state’s North.
“Robin wants to share his wealth of knowledge on how to grow the best berries,” Ms Noble said.
“[He is] eager to educate future generations so that primary production continues to expand in Tasmania.”
Ms Noble said they were expecting around 20 participants for each masterclass, with Mr Dornauf tailoring his lessons for the audience.
“He’ll cover a bit of everything – covering the basics for the kids but can give expert advice as a grower. They can have one-on-one time with him and pick his brain,” she said.
Each masterclass will include information about different strawberry varieties, how they grow in the Tasmanian climate, why runners should be cut so the plant puts its energy into the fruit and when to expect first and second flushes of berries.
“His workshop includes expert advice on how to pot and care for your plant to maximise your yield of juicy strawberries. You will have berries by Christmas,” Ms Noble said.
Plant ‘n’ Learn masterclasses cost $15 for one pot with two strawberry plants, $25 for two pots (four plants) and $30 for three pots (six plants).
The class includes mature plants and pot, specialised growing mix and fertiliser, plus direction and lessons from Robin Dornauf.
Stonesthrow will also be selling bags of mature strawberry plants at $20 for eights plants.
Plant ‘n’ Learn masterclasses will be held at Stonesthrow, 55 Sanddown Road, Norwood, on October 2, 4, 9 and 11 between 10.30am and 11.30am. Book your place on 6344 3691.
While you're with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates direct to your inbox? Sign up here.