Strawberry

Strawberries need well-drained soil rich in organic matter, ideally pH 5.5-6.5. Base fertilizer on a soil test and the fruiting type; managing runners and keeping crowns at soil level are essential for productive beds.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

12 in

First harvest

1–2 years

Tips

• Set bare-root plants with roots spread downward and the crown midpoint level with the soil surface.
• Provide about 1 inch of water weekly, increasing as needed in heat, and use clean straw to keep berries off soil.
• For June-bearers, apply maintenance fertilizer after harvest rather than heavy nitrogen during fruiting.
• Remove June-bearing flowers in the planting year; for day-neutrals, remove flowers for the first several weeks and trim runners.
• Pick fully red fruit with caps attached and promptly remove moldy berries to reduce gray mold.

Plant dormant bare-root crowns in early spring or nursery plugs at the recommended spring or late-summer planting time for your region.

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