Strawberry Growing Guide

Planting Strawberry

Strawberries can be grown in almost any soil as long as it is well-drained and fertile.
Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the root system and mound soil in the centre of the hole.
Set roots firmly into place so that the crown is just above the soil line and space 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 in) apart.
After planting, press the soil down firmly over the roots and water thoroughly.

Weed regularly when plants start growing.
Water as needed during active growth periods, but allow the soil to become dry between watering.
It’s simple to make more strawberry plants. The plants send out runners over the surface of the soil during the growing season. These can be pegged down, usually in June or July, while attached to the mother plant. Eventually, they will form a separate plant.
Don’t allow more than five runners to develop from each plant. In August, when the runner plants are well established, cut them from the parent and transplant immediately.
Avoid planting in areas where tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant, okra or vine crops have grown in the last 3 years.

Place a net over the plants to prevent birds and squirrels from eating the fruit.
Pick any ripe strawberries so they don’t rot on the plant. Check the plants every other day during the ripening period.

At the end of the season, allow the foliage to turn yellow and die back. After a frost, clip back the stem near ground level and apply a mulch cover to ensure the plant makes it through the winter months.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.