When to Plant Strawberries? The Complete Guide
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Strawberries are a delicious addition to any garden and offer the reward of juicy, sweet fruits. This guide will show you when and how best to plant, care for, and harvest strawberries for the tastiest results.
Interested in more plant guides? See also:
When to plant strawberries?
You can plant strawberries at different times of the year, depending on the type of plant and your preference:
- Spring (March-April): This gives the plants plenty of time to establish themselves and develop strong roots before the summer heat hits.
- Late summer (July-August): Planting in this period ensures an early and rich harvest the following year.
- Chilled Plants (March-June): These plants have been stored at low temperatures and can be planted from March through June, with a harvest about ten weeks later.
How much space between plantings and why?
When planting strawberries, it is important to allow sufficient space for healthy growth and optimal fruit production:
- Distance between plants: Maintain a distance of 25 to 35 cm between the plants.
- Row spacing: Leave 50 to 60 cm between rows.
These distances ensure that the plants receive sufficient light and air, which prevents diseases and improves the quality of the fruits.
How to plant strawberries?
Follow these steps for successful strawberry planting:
- Choose the right location: A sunny, sheltered spot is ideal for sweet and juicy fruits.
- Soil preparation: Ensure the soil is loose, humus-rich, and slightly acidic. Add compost to improve the soil structure.
- Planting depth: Plant the strawberries so that the center of the plant is just above the ground.
- Watering: Water immediately after planting and keep the soil moist, especially in the first few weeks.
How do I recognize a strawberry plant?
Strawberry plants are low-growing, herbaceous plants with serrated, three-petaled leaves. They produce white or pink flowers with five petals, followed by the familiar red fruits with small seeds on the outside.
How do I plant strawberries in open ground?
Strawberries thrive in open ground if you consider the following:
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Soil: Work compost or organic fertilizer into the soil for added nutrients.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of straw or mulch around the plants to retain moisture and keep the fruits clean.
Tips for getting the most and tastiest strawberries
For an abundant harvest of tasty strawberries:
- Sunlight: The more sun, the sweeter the fruits.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist, but avoid wet feet to prevent root rot.
- Remove suckers: Cut away suckers to direct energy to fruit production.
- Protection: Use nets to protect the fruits from birds.
When should I sow strawberries?
Although strawberries are usually planted as young plants, you can also sow them:
- Sowing time: Sow the strawberry seeds around February at room temperature. It's best to do this in a seed tray. The seeds need light, so make sure to cover them with soil at least.
- Germination conditions: Maintain a constant temperature of 18 to 20 degrees Celsius and provide sufficient light.
- Prickling out: When the seedlings have 2-3 leaves, you can transplant them into separate pots.
- Planting out: After the Ice Saints (mid-May) the young plants can be planted outside.
Where do strawberries grow best?
Strawberries grow best in a sunny location with well-drained, humus-rich, and slightly acidic soil. Sheltered spots protect the flowers and fruit from damage by strong winds.
Table: When to plant strawberries?
| Plant | Best planting month | Annual? | Distance between plants | Can it hibernate? | Cutting time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberries | March - April or August | Perennial | 25-35 cm | Yes, with protection | July - August |
This guide will tell you exactly when and how to plant strawberries for a bountiful harvest of delicious fruits. Want to learn more about other plants? Be sure to check out our other guides via the links above. Good luck in the garden!
