What is AF-P? It means Almost Fool-Proof. This is what we call our AF-P Strawberry Seed Germination System. It’s not really a huge innovation. It uses an Earthbox Junior to germinate strawberry seeds under natural conditions in full sun. This sub-irrigation system keeps the soil surface moisture fairly constant which is a requirement for successfully germinating strawberry seeds. And what is better for a full spectrum light than the sun itself?
It’s pretty simple. We use a 50:50 mix of coir and fine perlite with no initial fertilizer. Fertilizer will promote algae growth. A soluble liquid acid fertilizer at a half rate added to the reservoir once the plants have reached the first true leaf stage works fine. Or, transplant as soon as the plants are large enough to be transplanted.
Add a screen on top to keep out cats who think it’s a litter box. It will also keep out birds.
We have found that this setup will germinate even old seed. We have germinated 6 year old seeds from our freezer with excellent germination. We think the sun and constant surface moisture is what makes the difference.
