When to plant
Plant bare-root or potted strawberries in early spring. They will produce a small crop in their first summer, then a full crop from their second year. June-bearing varieties produce one heavy crop in early summer. Everbearing varieties produce smaller harvests spring through fall.
Soil & site
Strawberries require well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Work in compost before planting. They do not tolerate standing water. Raised beds or mounded rows are ideal. Avoid planting where tomatoes, potatoes, or peppers grew recently (shared diseases).
Feeding
Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again in late summer after the fruiting season ends. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding during flowering/fruiting — this promotes runners and leaves over berries. A potassium-rich fertilizer improves fruit size and sweetness.
Common problems
Grey mould (botrytis) in wet conditions — remove any mouldy berries immediately, improve air circulation. Slugs — use copper tape around raised beds or slug traps. Birds — cover with netting. Verticillium wilt — rotate planting location every 3–4 years. Aphids and spider mites on leaves.
When to harvest
Strawberries are ready when the entire fruit is uniformly red (including the "shoulders" near the green cap) and has a noticeable sweet smell. The berry should be firm but give very slightly to gentle pressure. Never harvest while any part is still white or pale pink — they don't ripen further once picked.
How to harvest
Pinch the stem just above the fruit between your thumbnail and forefinger, leaving about 1 cm of stem attached. Don't pull the berry — you'll bruise it. Check plants every 1–2 days during peak season. Harvest in the morning when berries are cool for best flavour and shelf life.
Storage & use
Don't wash until ready to eat — moisture accelerates mould. Store unwashed in the refrigerator for 2–3 days max. Hulled strawberries freeze well: spread on a baking sheet, freeze solid, then transfer to bags. Frozen strawberries are perfect for smoothies, jam, and baking.
Companion planting
Borage deters pests and is said to improve strawberry flavor and yield.
Useful for growing strawberry
A few things that make this one easier — chosen for this plant, not a generic list.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through one we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. More.
Growing Strawberry this season?
Sprout Together plans your beds, tracks planting and harvest timing for your area, and keeps every guide in your pocket — free.
Get it on the App Store