Dried out strawberry runners!

I ordered a dozen strawberry runners from Crocus, and they arrived yesterday. There wasn't any moisture in the bag they came in (bare roots) - the soil was totally dry, and they looked very sorry for themselves (but I've had good experiences with Crocus so far and have no reason to believe they have sent them in anything other than the best state for the time of year and the transport).

My allotment-holding workmate said they'd be fine if I got them into water when I got home. So I soaked the roots well, and have left them in a poly bag with some soil and water just while I'm out at work today.

What now? Should I plant them up tonight? Is it to be expected that the leaves are quite dry and brown at this time of year? Or do I have 12 dead runners that aren't going to do anything?

The fruit and veg thing has been a steeper learning curve for me than the Jurassic plants thing, but I'm determined to have something to show for my efforts this year while my other plants are growing into their pots!

 

About 12 yrs ago I grew strawberry from seed. They sprout up everywhere now!! Just like weeds!Without seeing a pic of what you have it's difficult to say what to do with them.

I'd just pot them up and wait and see. How long are the runners?
John

 

Including roots they're probably getting on for 9-10 inches, John. I didn't get a chance to take a photo yesterday (and I know that's usually the most helpful thing I can do when I have a question).

I'm encouraged by your report of them sprouting up everywhere!

 

Julia, they should be fine, if you`ve got a prepared strawberry bed then plant them, if not pot them up.

 

Thanks for the reassurance David. They're now planted up in a strawberry pot as I was able to get home early from my off-site conference yesterday. And I can see a few bright green leaves in and around the miserable brown ones, so feel better already!

 

Get a pair of scissors and cut the brown ones off. Not right away it`s to dark. :D :D

 

An excuse to get me in the garden first thing at the weekend then David!

(I don't need an excuse, but I always feel I need to think up one for my husband...)