Strawberry plants

Selecting the correct variety depends on your climate and harvest goals. June-bearing varieties produce one large crop per year and are ideal for processing industries. Ever-bearing and Day-neutral varieties provide a continuous harvest throughout the season, making them perfect for fresh retail markets. Ensure the variety is resistant to common pathogens like Verticillium wilt and Phytophthora root rot to minimize crop loss.

When sourcing, specify the crown diameter, which should ideally be between 8mm and 15mm for vigorous growth. For bare-root plants, ensure the root system is well-developed, moist, and light brown (not black or brittle). For plug plants, verify the substrate composition (usually peat or coco coir) and ensure the plants are free from visible pests like spider mites or aphids.

Cross-border trade of live plants is strictly regulated. You must ensure the supplier provides a Phytosanitary Certificate issued by their national plant protection organization (NPPO). The plants must comply with CITES regulations (if applicable) and meet the invasive species standards of the destination country. For organic markets, look for GlobalG.A.P. or USDA Organic certifications.

Request a pre-shipment inspection report or a small sample batch. Conduct a TTC (Triphenyl Tetrazolium Chloride) test if possible to check tissue viability. High-quality suppliers on Made-in-China.com often provide virus-free certification (VF) through tissue culture (meristem culture) techniques to guarantee the health of the starting material.

The biggest risk is logistical delay leading to plant mortality. Live plants are highly perishable; a 48-hour delay in customs can result in a 100% loss of inventory. Another risk is quarantine rejection if the shipment contains prohibited soil or pests. Always use refrigerated containers (Reefers) maintained at 0°C to 2°C for bare-root plants to keep them dormant.

Negotiate for 'Dead on Arrival' (DOA) protection and clear indemnity clauses regarding phytosanitary failure. Request tiered pricing based on volume, but prioritize quality over the lowest price, as cheap plants often have higher mortality rates. Ensure the contract specifies the packing method (e.g., moisture-retentive liners and ventilated crates).

Utilize Trade Assurance services provided by platforms like Made-in-China.com to protect your payment until shipping documents are verified. For shipping, choose Air Freight for small high-value plugs or Express Cold-Chain Logistics for larger volumes. Ensure all Import Permits are secured in your home country before the supplier dispatches the goods to avoid port seizures.