Climate change has markedly influenced crop production, driving the adoption of protected cultivation systems to regulate better key growth factors such as temperature, soil moisture, relative humidity, and light. Mulching, both organic and inorganic, is increasingly recognized as an effective practice for improving soil conditions and enhancing crop performance. This study evaluated the effects of different mulching treatments on soil properties, yield, and fruit quality of strawberry (Fragaria× ananassa Duchesne ex Rozier, cv. ‘Winter Dawn’) under protected cultivation in Almora, Uttarakhand, India. A total of four mulching treatments were tested on the cultivar: no-mulch/control (T1), silver-on-black polythene (T2), black polythene (T3), and straw mulch (T4). Black polythene mulch (T3) significantly increased soil temperature (20.75± 0.47°C) and moisture (29.08± 0.11%), resulting in higher flower number (56.33± 1.01), marketable fruit yield (45.00± 0.82 fruits/plant), and average fruit weight (11.96± 0.20g). Additionally, T3 improved antioxidant and proximate composition, while straw mulch (T4) notably enhanced fruit protein and carbohydrate content. Overall, mulching, particularly black polythene, proved effective in optimizing soil conditions and boosting strawberry yield and quality under protected cultivation, whereas straw mulch contributed to superior nutritional traits. These findings highlight mulching as a key strategy to sustain strawberry production and fruit quality under changing climatic conditions.
