How to Grow Strawberries: A Comprehensive Guide
Strawberries are a delightful addition to any garden, offering vibrant berries that are both delicious and nutritious. Whether you're growing June Bearers, Everbearers, or Day Neutral varieties, cultivating strawberries can be both rewarding and straightforward. Here's a detailed guide to ensure your strawberry patch thrives.
Click here to access the complete Strawberries Growing Guide (PDF) for detailed information on soil preparation, planting, and long-term care.
Preparing the Soil
Strawberries flourish in loose, loamy, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Start by preparing your beds with high-quality compost, avoiding cedar or redwood-based compost.
Planting Your Strawberries
When planting bare-root crowns, soak them in water for a few minutes to rehydrate. Plant them in holes deep enough to keep roots straight and avoid burying the crown. For best results, use weed fabric for varieties like Everbearers or Day Neutrals, ensuring optimal drainage and preventing berry spoilage.
Watering and Mulching
Strawberries need about 1 inch of water per week. Drip irrigation is recommended to minimize spoilage. Apply straw or frost blankets after the first frost for winter protection. Remove organic mulches in spring, leaving agricultural fabrics until flowers appear.
Pest and Disease Control
Use traps and copper barriers for snails and slugs, and protect plants from birds with netting or flash tape. Maintain proper spacing and air circulation to reduce disease risks.
Harvesting and Maintenance
Harvest ripe strawberries by pinching the stem above the berry to avoid bruising. Mow June Bearers after harvest and trim decaying foliage for Everbearers.
Choosing the Right Variety
- June Bearers: Produce a single, large crop. Ideal for concentrated harvests.
- Everbearers: Provide intermittent harvests, requiring less runner management.
- Day Neutrals: Highly prolific and suitable for extended harvests with precise care.
