When to Plant Strawberries? The Complete Guide
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Strawberries are a delicious addition to any garden, offering the reward of juicy, sweet fruits. This guide will show you when and how to plant, care for, and harvest strawberries for the tastiest results.
Interested in more plant guides? Also see:
When to plant strawberries?
Strawberries can be planted at different times of the year, depending on the type of plant and your preference:
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Spring (March-April): This gives the plants plenty of time to establish themselves and develop strong roots before the summer heat hits.
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Late summer (July-August): Planting in this period ensures an early and rich harvest the following year.
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Chilled Plants (March-June): These plants have been stored at cold 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 leave enough space for healthy growth and optimal fruit production:
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Spacing between plants: Keep a distance of 25 to 35 cm between the plants.
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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:
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Choose the right location: A sunny, sheltered spot is ideal for sweet, juicy fruits.
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Soil preparation: Provide a loose, humus-rich and slightly acidic soil. Add compost to improve soil structure.
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Planting depth: Plant the strawberries so that the heart of the plant just protrudes above the ground.
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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 take the following into account:
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Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
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Soil: Work compost or organic fertilizers into the soil for added nutrients.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of straw or mulch around the plants to retain moisture and keep fruits clean.
Tips for getting the most and tastiest strawberries
For an abundant harvest of tasty strawberries:
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Sunlight: The more sun, the sweeter the fruits.
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Watering: Keep the soil moist, but avoid wet feet to prevent root rot.
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Remove suckers: Cut away suckers to direct energy to fruit production.
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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:
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Sowing time: Sow the strawberry seeds around February at room temperature. It is best to do this in a seed tray. The seeds need light, so make sure you cover them with soil at least.
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Germination conditions: Keep a constant temperature of 18 to 20 degrees Celsius and provide sufficient light.
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Prickling out: When the seedlings have 2-3 leaves, you can transplant them into separate pots.
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Planting out: After Ice Saints (mid-May) the young plants can be planted outside.
Where do strawberries grow best?
Strawberries grow best in a sunny environment with well-drained, humus-rich and slightly acidic soil. Sheltered areas ensure that the flowers and fruits are not damaged 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 |
With this guide, you will know exactly when and how to plant strawberries for a rich 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!
