Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) are a highly rewarding fruit to cultivate, offering sweet harvests even in small spaces or containers. Planting strawberries is relatively straightforward for home gardeners. Success in growing this popular perennial depends heavily on selecting the correct starting material and following specific planting steps.
Sources of Strawberry Plants
The most common way to start a strawberry patch is by planting dormant, bare-root crowns. These are the plant’s root system and a compressed stem structure. Bare-root plants are economical and are shipped during the appropriate spring planting window. Upon arrival, soak the roots in water for 20 to 30 minutes to rehydrate them before planting. Bare-root crowns establish quickly because the plant’s energy is directed toward new root growth and foliage.
Another option is using potted plants, which are actively growing and available at local garden centers throughout the season. Potted plants offer the convenience of immediate planting and provide a slight head start. Gardeners can also propagate new plants from runners, which are horizontal stems sent out by a mother plant that develop small daughter plants.
Growing strawberries from seed is the slowest and least common method. Seeds require cold stratification for germination, and seed-grown plants usually do not produce fruit until the second year. Bare-root or potted plants often yield a small harvest in their first season. For faster, more reliable establishment and fruit production, bare-root or potted plants are the preferred choice.
Site Preparation and Optimal Location
Proper site selection and preparation are necessary to prevent common failures like root rot and low yields. Strawberries require full sun exposure, meaning the location should receive a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. This light is necessary for robust growth and the development of sweet, flavorful fruit.
The soil must be well-draining, as the shallow root system is susceptible to suffocation and fungal diseases in waterlogged conditions. Incorporating organic material, such as aged compost or manure, will improve soil structure and enhance drainage. Raised beds are an excellent solution for areas with heavy clay soil or poor drainage, elevating the root zone.
Strawberries thrive in slightly acidic soil, with an optimal pH range of 5.5 to 6.8. Testing the soil before planting allows the gardener to adjust the pH level by adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it. Clear the site of all perennial weeds before planting, as they compete intensely with the shallow-rooted plants for water and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Planting Technique
Planting requires precision, particularly when dealing with the plant’s crown. For bare-root plants, dig a hole wide enough to allow the roots to spread out naturally without being bent or coiled. The roots should hang down into the hole, not be crammed into a tight space.
Setting the crown depth is essential: the crown must sit exactly at the soil surface, with the roots covered but the growing point exposed. If the crown is buried too deeply, the plant may rot; if set too high, the roots will dry out. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it lightly around the roots to remove air pockets.
Proper spacing is important for air circulation and growth, helping to prevent fungal issues. For June-bearing varieties, space the plants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows, allowing runners to fill in and create a matted row system. Everbearing or day-neutral types produce fewer runners and can be planted closer, typically 12 inches apart.
Immediate Care After Planting
Immediately following the planting process, the new strawberry plants require focused attention to encourage root establishment. Give the plants a deep watering right away to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate any remaining air pockets. Consistent moisture is necessary for the first few weeks, as the newly planted crowns have not yet developed an extensive root system.
Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw, around the base of the plants will help conserve soil moisture and suppress weed growth. Mulch also serves the purpose of keeping developing berries clean and off the soil surface later in the season. During this first growing season, remove all flowers and any runners that appear on the newly planted crowns. This step redirects the plant’s energy away from fruit production toward developing a strong, robust root system, leading to significantly greater yields and longevity in subsequent years.