Strawberry plants reproduce asexually by sending out specialized horizontal stems called runners (stolons). These runners extend outward from the mother plant and develop new plantlets (daughter plants) at nodes along their length. Each plantlet is a genetic clone of the parent, allowing the plant to naturally expand the patch. Transplanting these new growths is an effective way to multiply a strawberry patch, which is necessary because the productivity of mother plants declines after about three years.
Selecting the Best Runners and Timing the Move
The best time to transplant strawberry runners is in the late summer or early fall, from late August through early October. Moving the young plants during this cooler period allows them time to establish a robust root system before winter dormancy. While early spring transplanting is possible, fall timing maximizes fruit production potential in the following season.
When selecting runners, focus on vigorous, healthy plantlets that have already begun to form their own roots. The first daughter plant closest to the mother is usually the strongest and the preferred candidate for transplanting. Avoid secondary or tertiary growths, as they tend to be weaker because the mother plant’s energy is divided. Only take runners from mother plants that are no older than two years to ensure the new clones inherit high productivity.
Preparing the New Location
The success of transplanted runners depends on the quality of the new location, which should be prepared before the move. Strawberry plants thrive in well-drained, rich soil, ideally a sandy loam that prevents waterlogging around their shallow root systems. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-aged manure, provides nutrients and improves soil structure.
The soil’s pH should be tested and adjusted to be slightly acidic, ideally falling within the range of 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal nutrient uptake. Before planting, thoroughly weed the area, as new plantlets cannot compete with established weeds for resources. New plants should be spaced approximately 12 to 18 inches apart in all directions, depending on the variety, to ensure proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
Executing the Transplant
The physical act of separating and planting the runner must be done carefully to minimize transplant shock. Use a small trowel to gently loosen the soil around the plantlet, aiming to lift the entire root ball intact without damaging the fine roots. Once the plantlet is removed, the runner connecting it to the mother plant can be cleanly severed with sharp scissors or clippers.
Keep the roots moist during the transition by wrapping them in damp sphagnum moss or a wet paper towel, as exposure to air can quickly dry them out. Dig a hole in the new location wide enough to accommodate the roots without bending them upwards. When placing the plant, ensure the central crown, where the leaves and roots meet, is precisely at the soil surface.
Planting the crown too deep will lead to rot, while planting it too high will cause the roots to dry out. After positioning the plant, backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it down around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Immediately after planting, thoroughly water each runner to settle the soil and begin the establishment process.
Immediate Aftercare for Established Growth
Following the transplant, the new plantlets require focused attention for the first few weeks to ensure they survive and establish themselves. Immediately after planting, deep watering is necessary to saturate the soil around the roots. For the next two to four weeks, keep the soil consistently moist, requiring daily watering in dry or hot conditions, as the young root system cannot tolerate drought.
If the transplant occurred during warmer weather, providing temporary partial shade can reduce stress and wilting on the new leaves. Applying a layer of straw mulch around the base of the plant helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and keep the crown clean. Any flowers that attempt to form in the first growing season after transplanting should be pinched off immediately to redirect the plant’s energy into developing a robust root system for future harvests.