Hybrid strawberry tree 'Marina' Arbutus × reyorum 'Marina'

Water

The Marina Strawberry Tree should be watered deeply, ensuring that water reaches the roots, typically once a week during the growing season. During the winter or in cooler weather, reduce watering to every two to three weeks, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture levels. It is important to avoid overwatering; allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. An established Marina Strawberry Tree may need around 1 to 2 gallons of water, depending on the size of the tree and the environmental conditions.

Light

The Marina Strawberry Tree thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can also tolerate some shade. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to suboptimal growth and fewer flowers or fruit.

Temperature

The Marina Strawberry Tree prefers a temperature range between 30°F and 100°F. It is quite tolerant of both coastal and inland climates, able to survive brief temperature dips down to about 20°F. Ideally, it performs best in a moderate climate where temperatures do not often exceed the higher end of its tolerance or drop below freezing.

Pruning

Pruning the Marina Strawberry Tree helps maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. It is best pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune as needed to shape the tree and thin out crowded branches, which can be done every couple of years or as necessary to manage the tree's size and appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Marina Strawberry Tree prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loamy soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand can create an ideal environment for its roots.

Repotting

Marina Strawberry Trees grown in pots may need repotting every 2-3 years. They should be repotted when they become root-bound or the soil is depleted.

Humidity & Misting

Marina Strawberry Trees are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels, but they perform best in moderate to high humidity environments, avoiding overly dry conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-drained soil, and room to grow.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, protect from strong winds, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

Sprouting begins with the germination of the 'Marina' madrone's seed, which requires a warm, moist environment to emerge. Once sprouted, the seedling develops a root system and foliage, entering the vegetative growth stage, where it rapidly increases in size and develops a woody stem. During the flowering stage, the mature 'Marina' madrone produces clusters of bell-shaped, pink or white flowers, which are pollinated by bees and other insects. Successful pollination leads to the fruiting stage, where red, berry-like fruits develop and mature, containing seeds for the next generation. As the fruits ripen, they are consumed by birds and other wildlife, which then disperse the seeds. The 'Marina' madrone can also reproduce vegetatively through root suckers, leading to the establishment of new plants nearby the parent.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter-early spring

• The most popular method of propagating the Marina Strawberry Tree (Arbutus × 'Marina') is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process usually takes place during the late summer months. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that has partially matured; the wood is firm but still flexible. Typically, one would select shoots that are 4 to 6 inches long, and all but the top few leaves should be removed. The cut base of the cutting is often dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance root development, then planted in moist, well-draining potting mix. It is crucial to maintain a high humidity level around the cuttings, which can be achieved by placing a plastic cover over the pot or propagation tray. Roots generally develop within a few weeks to a couple of months, after which the new plants can be gradually hardened off before transplanting.