North American Fruit Explorers mailing list at ibiblio

["Allen B. Downey" <downey@allendowney.com>]

Hi All,

I have a raised bed that is finally ready for strawberries,
but I am a bit late for getting things started (here in
Needham, MA, Zone 6a).

I would like to try several varieties of alpine strawberries
and see what works well.  So I have a few questions:

1) is it worth starting seeds now and transplanting them in
the fall, or should I wait to get the whole thing started
next spring?

2) Stello Otto recommends the following varieties:

        Alexandia
        Baron (von) Solemacher
        Mignonette
        Ru(e)gen Improved

Alexandria seems easy to find -- I just ordered a packet of
seeds.  Does anyone have a source for any of the others?

3) Are there other varieties you would recommend?

4) If anyone has seeds you would be willing to send, I can
provide a list of seeds I have on hand to exchange.  Assorted
vegetables, flowers and herbs -- nothing exotic, but maybe
something you would like.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Cheers,
Allen