Ugni molinae 'Strawberries & Cream' Care Guide: Complete Growing Instructions

Overview

Ugni molinae 'Strawberries & Cream' is a moderate difficulty plant that is a stunning variegated cultivar of Chilean Guava, prized for its ornamental cream-and-pink foliage and delicious strawberry-flavored berries. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to successfully grow and maintain your Ugni molinae 'Strawberries & Cream'.

Light Requirements

Ideal Conditions

• Light Type: Full sun to partial shade
• Intensity: Bright light with some afternoon protection in hot climates
• Duration: 6-8 hours daily
• Best Placement: East or west-facing window, or filtered south exposure

Signs of Light Issues

• Too Much Light: Leaf bleaching, crispy edges, loss of variegation intensity
• Too Little Light: Reduced variegation, leggy growth, minimal flowering
• Solutions: Move gradually to adjust light levels; use sheer curtains for filtering intense sun

Watering Guide

Watering Schedule

• Growing Season (Spring/Summer): Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry (typically 2-3 times per week)
• Dormant Season (Fall/Winter): Reduce to once per week or when top 3 inches are dry
• Check Method: Finger test to second knuckle or moisture meter

Watering Technique

• Method: Deep watering until drainage occurs, avoiding wet foliage
• Amount: Water thoroughly until excess drains from pot bottom
• Water Type: Preferably rainwater or filtered water; tolerates tap water if not too alkaline
• Drainage: Essential - must have drainage holes and well-draining soil

Watering Problems

• Overwatering Signs: Yellowing leaves, soft stems, root rot, fungal issues
• Underwatering Signs: Wilting, dry crispy leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth
• Recovery Tips: Adjust watering schedule immediately; for overwatering, let soil dry out and check roots

Soil Requirements

Soil Composition

• Base Mix: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
• Custom Recipe: 40% quality potting soil, 30% perlite, 20% pine bark, 10% compost
• Commercial Alternative: Azalea/Camellia mix or acid-loving plant potting mix
• pH Level: 5.5-6.5 (slightly acidic)

Soil Maintenance

• Refresh Frequency: Top-dress annually, full replacement every 2-3 years
• Signs to Replace: Compacted soil, salt buildup, poor drainage, foul odor
• Amendments: Annual compost top-dressing, occasional sulfur for pH adjustment

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature Ranges

• Optimal Range: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Minimum Safe: 25°F (-4°C)
• Maximum Safe: 95°F (35°C)
• Temperature Fluctuations: Tolerates moderate fluctuations; protect from frost when young

Humidity Management

• Ideal Humidity: 50-60%
• Minimum Acceptable: 40%
• How to Increase: Pebble trays, grouping plants, regular misting around (not on) plant
• Monitoring: Use hygrometer; watch for crispy leaf edges indicating low humidity

Fertilization Program

Fertilizer Schedule

• Growing Season: Every 2-3 weeks with diluted fertilizer
• Dormant Season: Monthly or suspend completely
• Type: Balanced fertilizer for acid-loving plants (like azalea food)
• Strength: Half-strength dilution

Application Method

• Technique: Apply to moist soil to prevent root burn
• Timing: Morning application during active growth
• Signs of Over-fertilization: Salt buildup on soil, brown leaf tips, excessive vegetative growth
• Recovery: Flush soil with water, skip next 2-3 feedings

Pruning & Maintenance

Regular Maintenance

• Frequency: Light pruning as needed, major pruning annually
• Tools Needed: Clean, sharp pruning shears
• Sterilization: 10% bleach solution or rubbing alcohol between cuts

What to Prune

• Dead/Dying Parts: Remove immediately to prevent disease spread
• Shape Control: Pinch tips for bushier growth; trim to maintain desired shape
• Size Management: Can be pruned up to 1/3 of size annually
• Timing: Late winter/early spring before new growth

Post-Pruning Care

• Wound Treatment: Usually unnecessary; large cuts can be sealed with pruning paste
• Recovery Period: Reduce watering slightly for 1-2 weeks; resume normal care as new growth appears

Repotting Guide

Repotting Schedule

• Frequency: Every 2-3 years or when rootbound
• Best Time: Early spring before active growth
• Signs to Repot: Roots circling pot bottom, water runs through quickly, stunted growth

Repotting Process

1. Preparation: Water day before; prepare new pot and fresh soil
2. Pot Size: Increase by 2 inches diameter maximum
3. Root Care: Gently loosen root ball, trim dead roots, don't disturb healthy roots excessively
4. Planting: Position at same depth as before, firm soil gently
5. After Care: Water thoroughly, place in bright indirect light for 1 week

Pot Selection

• Material: Terracotta or ceramic with good drainage
• Drainage: Multiple drainage holes essential
• Size Guidelines: 1.5-2x root ball width, avoid oversizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring (March-May)

• Begin increased watering schedule, start fertilizing, prune for shape, repot if needed, watch for new growth

Summer (June-August)

• Peak growing season, maintain consistent moisture, provide afternoon shade in extreme heat, harvest berries when ripe

Fall (September-November)

• Gradually reduce watering and fertilizing, bring indoors if temperatures drop below 30°F, last harvest of berries

Winter (December-February)

• Minimal watering, no fertilizer, protect from frost, maintain above 25°F, plan spring pruning

Pro Tips for Success

• Variegated varieties need more light than green forms to maintain coloration
• Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
• Hand-pollinate flowers for better fruit set using a small paintbrush
• Young plants are more frost-sensitive; provide extra winter protection first 2 years
• Regular harvesting of berries encourages more fruit production

Tools & Supplies Checklist

• [ ] Quality pruning shears
• [ ] Moisture meter
• [ ] pH testing kit
• [ ] Acid-loving plant fertilizer
• [ ] Well-draining potting mix
• [ ] Mulch for moisture retention

Monthly Care Reminder

Use this checklist to stay on track with your Ugni molinae 'Strawberries & Cream' care:

• [ ] Check soil moisture
• [ ] Inspect for pests/diseases
• [ ] Clean leaves (if applicable)
• [ ] Rotate plant for even growth
• [ ] Monitor environmental conditions
• [ ] Document growth/changes

Last updated: January 2025 Difficulty Level: Moderate Estimated time commitment: 30-45 minutes per week